What Is the Difference Between Memory Loss and Dementia?

Some memory problems are expected during the aging process. However, dementia is a more serious issue that requires professional intervention. When deciding about senior memory care services, you must understand memory loss vs. dementia.

Buckner Villas offers specialized memory care and support for your loved one. We welcome you to contact us at 512.580.9882 for more information about our high-quality senior memory care services. 

Memory Loss vs. Dementia

There are several differences between memory loss and dementia. Memory loss can occur for multiple reasons, and people of any age can struggle with it temporarily or chronically. Dementia, by contrast, is more specific and dangerous. 

During an episode of memory loss, especially age-related, your loved one may forget minor details or events that happened a long time ago. This is considered normal. Conversely, dementia symptoms involve forgetting details needed to get through each day, severely impacting your loved one’s quality of life. 

When contemplating dementia vs. memory loss, consider your loved one’s other abilities. Dementia usually comes with changes in speech, language comprehension, and self-care. 

Dementia vs. Memory Loss: Which Is More Dangerous?

Dementia can become dangerous if an individual doesn’t receive the appropriate medical care and supervision. Because dementia can cause wandering and other safety problems, it must be addressed daily. 

Some seniors with dementia become confused about times, dates, and locations in the present. They may or may not remember past events and details, so it’s important to look at how they view the present. 

You may also notice that they can’t follow written or verbal directions like they used to. This inability can be dangerous and even life-threatening when performing everyday activities like cooking or driving. 

Age-related memory loss isn’t always dangerous, but dementia can be. It’s important to talk to a medical professional as soon as possible to help with symptoms of dementia. 

Navigating Dementia with Your Loved One

Dementia is not easy for a person struggling with it. Cognitive impairments may also take a toll on their family. It can be difficult to know which steps to take when noticing more severe symptoms. 

You know your loved one best, so mention any changes or concerns to their medical provider. For instance, physicians need to know about sudden changes in eating habits, confusion, and speech patterns. 

You should also keep an open line of communication with your loved one. They may not always know what’s happening, but talking to them about it will help them feel safe and secure. 

The Best Way to Care for Someone with Dementia 

The best way to help your loved one once their dementia worsens is to seek memory care. Memory care is a specialized form of support for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. While dementia can affect seniors with or without Alzheimer’s, it still requires appropriate treatments and therapies. 

In memory care, your loved one can meet other seniors with the same struggles. They also receive personalized assistance with daily tasks that they may find difficult at home. Memory care is the safest and most appropriate place for a person with dementia. 

Benefits of Memory Care for Dementia

There are many advantages to seeking memory care for your loved one with dementia. Some of the benefits of memory care include:

• Constant supervision
• Social interaction with other seniors
• Planned activities and hobbies
• Structure and routine
• Help with tasks of daily living, such as bathing, eating, and grooming
• Specialized therapies to help with memory and cognition

These are just a few reasons you should consider memory care for your loved one. 

Choose Buckner Villa for Senior Memory Care Services

Regarding memory loss vs. dementia, it’s important to be realistic. Your loved one deserves the best care possible, and we provide that at Buckner Villas. Contact us at 512.580.9882 or online to learn about our memory care services.