What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?

Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often spoken about as though they are the same thing, but there is an important difference between the two.

Dementia is not a single disease. It is a term used to describe a group of symptoms caused by different conditions that affect the brain. These symptoms can include problems with memory, thinking, communication, mood and the ability to manage everyday tasks.

Alzheimer’s disease is a specific disease and a cause of dementia. In fact, the NHS identifies Alzheimer’s disease as the most common cause of dementia in the UK.

Other types and causes of dementia include vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia. It is also possible for someone to have more than one type at the same time, which is known as mixed dementia.

How common is dementia?

Dementia affects a significant and growing number of people. The NHS states that more than 944,000 people in the UK have dementia, including around 1 in 11 people aged over 65. The number is expected to exceed one million by 2030 as the population ages.

In England alone, official government statistics recorded 483,000 people aged 65 and over with a formal dementia diagnosis by December 2024.

However, dementia should not be considered an inevitable part of getting older. While the risk increases with age, dementia is caused by diseases affecting the brain rather than ageing itself.

What happens with Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, meaning symptoms generally develop gradually and become more significant over time.

One of the first signs is often difficulty remembering recent information. As the condition progresses, a person may experience difficulties with communication, reasoning, planning and completing familiar activities. Changes in mood, behaviour or confidence can also occur.

Every person’s experience is different. A diagnosis does not mean that someone immediately loses their independence or ability to enjoy everyday life. With appropriate care, treatment and support, people living with dementia can continue to participate in activities, maintain relationships and enjoy meaningful experiences.

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease or most other causes of dementia. However, medicines can help manage some symptoms, while approaches including cognitive stimulation, cognitive rehabilitation, reminiscence and life story work can also form part of someone’s support.

For further medical information, visit the NHS guide to dementia.

Dementia care at Glenholme

As dementia progresses, a person’s care needs may change. Some people continue living independently or with support from relatives, while others may benefit from a care environment designed around their changing needs.

Glenholme provides specialist dementia care, with support tailored around each resident’s individual needs, preferences and routines. Our approach is designed to help residents feel safe, understood and engaged while maintaining independence wherever possible.

Families are also an important part of the care journey, contributing to assessments and ongoing care planning so that our teams can understand the individual beyond their diagnosis.

Learn more about dementia care at Glenholme

Glenholme also provides respite care, offering short-term support that can provide families and carers with a break while their loved one is cared for in a safe and supportive environment.