Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference and How Do We Care?

In this quick video, we explain how they’re connected and how to care with compassion—whether you’re a family member or PSW. 💙

Understanding the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is the first step in providing the right care and support for your loved one. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same thing. In this post and the video above we’ll walk you through what makes them different and how both professional and family caregivers can offer compassionate, effective care.

What Is Dementia? Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference and How Do We Care?

Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive function such as memory, reasoning, or communication that interferes with daily life. It’s not one single disease but rather a collection of symptoms caused by various conditions or damage to the brain. Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference and How Do We Care?

Common types of dementia include:

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Vascular dementia

• Lewy body dementia

Frontotemporal dementia

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of cases. It’s a progressive and degenerative brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out even the simplest tasks.

While dementia refers to a broad category of symptoms, Alzheimer’s is a specific disease diagnosis with a known pattern of progression. Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference and How Do We Care?

Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: Key Differences

Dementia	Alzheimer’s
Group of symptoms	Specific disease
Has multiple causes	One known cause (plaques & tangles in the brain)
Symptoms vary depending on the type	Progressive memory and function decline
Sometimes reversible (depending on cause)	Not currently reversible

Caring for Someone with Dementia

Every person with dementia has unique needs, but some common care approaches include:

• Calm, consistent routines

• Support with daily living (dressing, meals, hygiene)

• Gentle communication and redirection

• Emotional reassurance

Caregivers, whether family or professional, must remain patient and flexible as needs change.

Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s

As Alzheimer’s progresses, the need for hands-on care grows. This may include:

• Supervision and safety monitoring

• Help with feeding, bathing, and toileting

• Assistance with medication and mobility

• Long-term planning for future stages

Because Alzheimer’s is progressive, planning ahead and accessing professional support early on is key. Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference and How Do We Care?

PSWs and Family: Partners in Care

At APlus Homecare Services, we know the best care happens when family members and PSWs work together.

• Personal Support Workers (PSWs) bring training, structure, and medical insight.

• Families bring emotional connection and understanding of the person’s history.

Together, this partnership provides dignity, stability, and the highest quality of care possible.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be emotional, tiring, and uncertain but you’re not alone. If you or someone you love is navigating this journey, reach out. Our team at APlus Homecare Services is here to support you with compassion and professionalism. That is Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference and How Do We Care? We hope we were able to help you.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

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