Understanding the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia is crucial for families navigating care options for their loved ones. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. Dementia is an umbrella term for cognitive decline affecting memory, reasoning, and communication, while Alzheimer’s is a specific disease and the leading cause of dementia.

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences, discuss how they impact individuals, and explore how home care can provide vital support.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is a broad term that refers to a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. It affects:

• Memory
• Reasoning
• Communication skills

However, dementia is not a specific disease—rather, it’s a syndrome caused by various conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.

What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. It is a progressive disease that impacts:

• Memory
• Thinking
• Behavior

Over time, Alzheimer’s leads to severe cognitive decline, requiring memory care and constant support.

For a quick visual breakdown of the differences between Alzheimer’s and dementia, View or Download Our Infographic above.

How Can Home Care Help?

Caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. Home care provides personalized support to enhance quality of life while ensuring safety and comfort. A professional caregiver can assist with:

• Daily tasks (bathing, dressing, meal preparation)
• Companionship to reduce loneliness
• Safety monitoring to prevent falls and accidents

The goal of home care is to allow individuals to remain in a familiar environment while receiving the assistance they need.

Get Alzheimer’s or Dementia Care in San Antonio & Surrounding Areas

If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of dementia or Alzheimer’s, Texas Caregivers is here to help. We offer compassionate memory care services in San Antonio, Medina County, and nearby areas, ensuring your loved ones receive personalized support in the comfort of home.

Contact us today at texascaregivers.us or call 830-444-0255 to learn more about our home care services.