What is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease, but a general term for a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities. It interferes with a person’s daily life, independence, and relationships.
People often associate dementia with memory loss, but it can also involve:
- Difficulty communicating
- Mood changes
- Poor judgment
- Confusion with time or place
Types of Dementia You Should Know
There are many types of dementia. Here are the most common:
Alzheimer’s Disease
- Most common form
- Typically begins with memory loss and confusion
Vascular Dementia
- Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often after strokes
- Similar symptoms to Alzheimer’s
Lewy Body Dementia
- Can cause visual hallucinations and movement difficulties
Frontotemporal Dementia
- Often affects personality and behavior, especially in younger people
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Dementia symptoms often develop slowly and may be hard to spot at first. Look for:
- Repeating questions or forgetting conversations
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Misplacing items frequently
- Struggling to follow conversations
- Withdrawing from social situations
- Sudden mood swings
Is It Just Aging?
No. While aging can affect memory, dementia is not a normal part of getting older.
Dementia is the result of brain cell damage, not just aging.
Dementia Affects Everyone in the Family
A dementia diagnosis doesn’t just affect the person with symptoms — it changes the lives of their entire care network.
Family caregivers often:
- Provide personal care and emotional support
- Coordinate appointments and medications
- Experience stress, isolation, and fatigue
What To Do If You Suspect Dementia
If you notice signs in a loved one:
- Book an appointment with their doctor
- Document changes and share examples
- Reach out to community or dementia support organizations
You Are Not Alone!
At blueBell, we know that navigating dementia care can feel overwhelming — like being stranded on an island. That’s why we built blueBell Connect: to bring caregivers together and provide personalized, culturally safe support.
Need Help Navigating Dementia?
Reach out today to learn how blueBell Connect can help you build a care team, communicate effectively, and find the right support at the right time. Contact us at info@blueBellVillage.ca