Alzheimer’s Disease is a form of dementia.

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of symptoms that occur when brain cells stop functioning properly. The most common types of dementia are Alzheimer’s disease, Vascular Dementia, Dementia with Lewy bodies, Frontotemporal Dementia, and Mixed Dementia. These diseases affect our memory, thinking, emotions, and ability to perform everyday tasks.

Regardless of the type of dementia and the parts of the brain that are affected, each person experiences dementia uniquely. This is why The Dementia Society advocates for and employs an individualized approach to care. This takes into account the whole person living with dementia and their unique needs and circumstances to support them, along with the needs of their caregivers and families.

Click here to learn more about dementia

Appetite and taste can be affected for a number of reasons. Sometimes you just go “off” certain foods. But notable changes in mood and behaviour, loss of the ability to perform activities of daily living or struggling to find your words may signal something else. It may be something easily addressed through medication or treatment, or it may be a symptom of something more complex. Don’t hesitate, get it checked out.

Read about the 10 warning signs of dementia.

While researchers are working diligently to better understand the causes of the various forms of dementia, we do know that keeping physically and mentally active can help prevent, delay, and slow dementia.

Activity helps to increase your brain’s cognitive reserve: its ability to compensate for damage caused by dementia. And, even if COVID-19 and social distancing make things more challenging, take time to go out for a walk, connect safely with a friend, and enjoy your hobbies to do your brain a favour. The brain loves a challenge! You can take steps to help prevent dementia and slow the process if you have a diagnosis.

Read about the 7 ways you can boost your brain health.