Basic Definitions and Relationship

Dementia as an Umbrella Term

• Dementia describes symptoms affecting memory, thinking and social abilities.
• It’s a syndrome with multiple possible causes; it impacts daily functioning and independence.
• Dementia encompasses various conditions that cause cognitive decline.

In practice, think of dementia as an umbrella rather than a single disease: symptoms and speed of change vary from person to person. What matters most is the impact on daily life—managing bills, following conversations, meals, and personal safety—not just ‘memory’.

Alzheimer’s as a Specific Type of Dementia

• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia (around 60–80% of cases).
• It is a progressive brain disorder with distinctive biological changes.

The Relationship Between the Two

• Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia, but not all dementia is Alzheimer’s.
• Getting the terminology right helps families access the right support and care services.

Why it matters

Getting the vocabulary right saves time and worry: dementia describes a set of symptoms; Alzheimer’s is one common cause. Knowing which you’re dealing with helps you find the right tests, support and next steps.

Clinical Differences and Diagnosis

Symptoms and Progression

• Dementia symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause.
• Alzheimer’s often begins with memory problems before affecting other functions.
• Progression patterns differ by type; early signs can be subtle and easily overlooked by families.

Day to day, this might look like misplacing familiar items, repeating questions, or changes in judgement and mood. Alzheimer’s tends to start with memory; other causes may affect movement, attention or behaviour earlier. Small patterns over weeks to months matter.

Brain Changes

• Alzheimer’s: involves specific brain changes, including protein deposits that build up and disrupt how nerve cells communicate and function.
• Other dementias: show different patterns of change.
• Brain scans may show distinctive patterns in different dementias.
• Understanding these differences helps explain why symptoms vary.

When we say protein deposits, we mean abnormal build‑ups that interrupt cell‑to‑cell signalling and, over time, damage brain cells (amyloid plaques and tau tangles). You don’t need an in-depth medical breakdown or test results to take action—what matters is spotting changes early and putting support in place.

Getting diagnosed

• Start with your GP. Describe the real-life examples (when changes began, what’s harder now).  
• Referral to memory services/clinics is typically the first step. Cognitive assessments evaluate mental function; blood tests rule out other causes that may be treatable (e.g. thyroid issues).
• Brain scans may help identify the specific type of dementia.
• NHS diagnostic pathways aim to give clear answers for families.

Why it matters

Different dementias can look similar on the surface, but the pattern of symptoms, brain changes, and test results point to different paths. The goal of diagnosis is clarity for care—so you can plan confidently.

Types of Dementia Beyond Alzheimer’s

• Vascular dementia: often linked to reduced blood flow to the brain (e.g., after stroke); symptoms can appear more suddenly. This can be upsetting and difficult to deal with. The decline can also happen more suddenly, a ‘step-wise’ decline. Vascular dementia is the second most common type in the UK. It can co-exist with Alzheimer’s
• Dementia with Lewy bodies: may include visual hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and movement problems similar to Parkinson’s disease. It can cause tremors, rigidity and difficulty walking. People experience fluctuating levels of alertness and attention. This can be very distressing.
• Frontotemporal dementia: often leads to significant personality and behaviour changes first, presenting challenges with social conduct and emotional regulation. It is more common under 65.
• Mixed dementia: more than one cause at the same time (e.g., Alzheimer’s + vascular changes).

Read next: What Are the Different Types of Dementia: A Comprehensive Outline

In short, there are several causes of dementia beyond Alzheimer’s.

Care Approaches and Support

Treatment Differences

• Medications licensed for Alzheimer’s may not work for other dementias.
• Cognitive stimulation and therapies are tailored by type.
• NHS treatment guidelines vary by dementia type.

Care Planning Considerations

• Different types will shape care strategies and future planning.
• Knowing the likely type helps anticipate challenges and home adaptations.

For families, that can include simplifying the home layout, setting up daily routines, reviewing medication, discussing driving, arranging respite, and getting legal/financial paperwork in order. Your GP or memory clinic can signpost local NHS and community support; TrustonTap can help organise practical help at home.

Support for Carers

• Condition‑specific groups available across the UK.
• Alzheimer’s Society and broader dementia support organisations, e.g. Dementia Oxfordshire
• Caring challenges differ according to the type of condition; targeted resources can help.

Living Well with Dementia

• Person-centred approaches regardless of specific diagnosis.
• Focus on quality of life and maintain dignity.
• Build communication and supportive environments based on individual needs.

What to do now

Whatever the diagnosis, person-centred routines, safety tweaks in the home, and the right mix of therapies make the biggest difference day to day. The specific type simply helps you prioritise what to try first.

TrustonTap can help

• Book a free 15‑minute consultation to map your next steps.
• Practical help with routines, safety in your home, and appointment logistics.
• See our related guides: Reducing the Risk of Dementia, Types of Dementia.