What Is the Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia? Stages, Risk Factors, and Where to Find Support
Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.
It is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
Alzheimer’s is also the most common cause of dementia, a general term that describes a decline in cognitive functions severe enough to interfere with daily life.
Dementia is not a specific disease, but rather a group of symptoms that can be caused by different conditions.
Alzheimer’s accounts for between 60% and 80% of dementia cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Currently, more than 6.9 million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s.
It is estimated that by 2050, that number could double if new effective treatments are not developed.
In Massachusetts, thousands of families face the impact of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia each year.
Additionally, more than 130,000 family caregivers in the state provide unpaid support to individuals with these conditions.
This represents millions of hours of care and support.
Source: Alzheimer’s Association, 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures.
Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia
One of the most searched questions online is: What is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Dementia is a general term that describes symptoms affecting memory, reasoning, and the ability to perform daily activities.
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia and represents between 60% and 80% of cases.
Not all dementia is Alzheimer’s, but Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia.
Understanding this difference helps reduce confusion and facilitates access to early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Source: Alzheimer’s Association.
Stages of Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s progresses through different stages:
1. Early Stage (Mild)
- Recent memory loss.
- Difficulty finding words.
- Mild disorientation.
At this stage, the person may still live independently.
2. Middle Stage (Moderate)
- More frequent confusion.
- Changes in personality or behavior.
- Increasing need for daily assistance.
3. Late Stage (Severe)
- Significant memory loss.
- Difficulty communicating.
- Total dependence on a caregiver.
Early detection allows for better care planning and access to community resources.
Source: Alzheimer’s Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s
The main risk factor is age, especially after 65.
Other factors include:
- Family history.
- Cardiovascular disease.
- Diabetes.
- Hypertension.
- Physical inactivity.
- Lower educational attainment.
The CDC notes that maintaining a healthy lifestyle physical activity, blood pressure control, and a balanced diet may help reduce risk or delay cognitive decline.
Source: CDC – Alzheimer’s Disease Risk Factors.
Alzheimer’s Statistics in the United States and Massachusetts
Some key data that show the impact of this disease:
Every 65 seconds, someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is one of the leading causes of death among older adults.
More than 11 million family members and friends provide unpaid care nationwide.
In Massachusetts, the economic impact of informal caregiving is estimated in the billions of dollars annually.
These numbers reflect the importance of education, early detection, and access to support.
Source: Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures Report.
Free Virtual Alzheimer’s Webinar in Spanish
To support the Latino community, the Alzheimer’s Association will offer a free webinar in Spanish:
March 2 – Virtual
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (ET)
Register here: https://alz-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8taD6QptR4exJXoPP9OOrQ#/registration
During this session, participants will learn about:
- The difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia.
- Stages of the disease.
- Risk factors.
- Current research.
- Available treatments for some symptoms.
- Support programs and resources.
Participation is free with prior registration.
Support Resources and Programs in Massachusetts
1. Alzheimer’s Association – 24/7 Helpline
800-272-3900 (free, available year-round)
Provides information, emotional support, education, referrals to support groups, and local resources for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and their caregivers.
2. MassOptions – Caregiver and Dementia Support Services
800-243-4636
Free statewide service that connects older adults, individuals with dementia, and their families to local support, services, counseling, and community programs.
3. Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter – Support Groups
800-272-3900
Offers caregiver support groups, early-stage Alzheimer’s groups, community connection, and emotional support.
4. MassOptions – Memory & Dementia Supports
1-800-243-4636
Provides listings of support groups, Memory Cafés, and community programs for individuals with memory loss and their families in Massachusetts.
5. Alzheimer’s Foundation of America – National Helpline
866-232-8484
info@alzfdn.org
Free helpline staffed by licensed social workers who offer emotional support, daily care guidance, caregiver strategies, and local referrals.
6. Family Caregiver Alliance
Website: caregiver.org
Offers educational resources, information on Alzheimer’s and other dementias, caregiver support, guides, and tools for managing care at home. (Nationally recognized resource for families.)
Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging.
Understanding the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, recognizing the stages and risk factors, and connecting with resources in Massachusetts can help families make informed decisions.
Access to education in Spanish is key to reducing barriers and strengthening our community.
