Dementia & Memory
Memory changes or other changes in how your brain works can be scary. Understanding the difference between “Normal Aging” and “Not Normal Aging” is the first step in sorting out these changes. There are many reasons brain changes take place.
Dementia is not part of normal aging. It is a disease. There are other medical conditions, however, that may mimic the signs and symptoms normally associated with dementia. These other conditions should be considered and treated by a health care provider as needed.
Dementia Care Specialist
Individuals, families, caregivers and the community can get education and support about Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, brain health, and memory screens from our dedicated dementia care specialist.
You can get answers to questions like "What Memory Changes are Normal?" and find brain health information on our Healthy Living section. For example, the lists below identify types of brain changes. If you or someone else you know has symptoms from the right side, contact the ADRC for information on memory screens or resources for a thorough medical assessment.
In this interview, Trisha Witham, Dementia Care Specialist talks about signs and symptoms of dementia and some ways to try and protect against dementia.
Slower to think
Slower to do
Hesitates more
More likely to “look before you leap”
Know the person but not the name
Pause to find words
Reminded of the past
Can’t think the same
Can’t do like before
Can’t get started
Can’t seem to move on
Doesn’t think it out at all
Can’t place the person
Words won’t come-even later
Confused about the past
Know the Ten Warning Signs
Alzheimer’s Association guide to the 10 Warning Signs can also help identify a need for a more comprehensive evaluation. You can review the 10 warning signs and other information here.
Get a Better Understanding of Dementia
Support Group
Connecting with others and sharing experiences can be very helpful. Consider attending our Dementia Caregiver Support Group.
Workshops
These workshops and videos provide valuable information about dementia.
Dementia 101
You can attend Dementia 101 or watch this recent workshop recording here.
Whether you help a loved one, neighbor or friend, work with the public, or would just like to know more about dementia, this information will help you. You’ll learn about dementia, a general term used to describe a decline in brain function. The session will cover:
differences between Alzheimer’s and dementia
signs and symptoms of dementia
an overview of the most common types of dementia
how dementia affects the various parts of the brain
Dementia Live
You can get a sense of what it's like to live with Dementia Live, training available in person or virtually through our Dementia Care Specialist. The transformative dementia simulation empowers participants and helps them develop empathy for those experiencing dementia. You can also view a related video here.
Videos
Dementia, It's Not Just Alzhemier's
The terms “Dementia” and “Alzheimer's” are often used interchangeably. They actually have very different meanings. How are you and your organization talking about dementia? Does everyone understand the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Dementia: Understand the Facts
The more we know about dementia, the better able we are to help the people who are living with it and those who care about them. Watch, understand the facts, and share with friends and colleagues!
Words currently used to describe people who are living with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, are frequently derogatory and discriminatory. It does not have to be this way. Watch, find out what you can do, and share!
Care and Resources
Visit our Caregiver page to learn how our caregiver coordinator can help you explore helpful resources and options.