Common Forms of Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term and a global issue. In Scotland over 90,000 people have dementia and almost 2,086 live in East Dunbartonshire. It is most common in older people but younger people with dementia can be affected by dementia in their 40’s or 50’s or even younger. There are over 100 different types of dementia. Most people with a diagnosis will have one of the main types: Alzheimer’s Disease or Vascular Dementia though some people have a diagnosis of ‘mixed dementia’. You may also get a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment which may or may not develop into dementia in the longer term.
- Alzheimer’s Disease is where small clumps of protein, known as plagues or tangles, begin to develop around brain cells. This disrupts the normal workings of the brain. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia. Symptoms include lapses of memory and having problems finding the right words. Mood fluctuations and agitation can also be symptoms
- Vascular Dementia is where problems with blood circulation result in parts of the brain not receiving enough blood and oxygen. Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. It often follows a ‘stepped’ progression, with symptoms remaining at a constant level for a time and then suddenly deteriorating. Some symptoms may be similar to those of other types of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Other symptoms include problems with speed of thinking, concentration and communication and some symptoms that may be associated with stroke such as weakness or paralysis
See Other Types of Dementia for information on less common types of dementia.