Dementia is not a single disease—it’s a broad term for multiple conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behavior. While Alzheimer’s is the most well-known, other types of dementia present different challenges and require unique caregiving approaches.

In Part 1, we covered the four most common types:
✔️ Alzheimer’s Disease – Memory loss, confusion, problem-solving difficulties.
✔️ Vascular Dementia – Linked to strokes, causing trouble with focus and decision-making.
✔️ Lewy Body Dementia – Hallucinations, movement issues, and fluctuating alertness.
✔️ Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) – Affects personality and behavior before memory loss.

But dementia extends beyond these.

Here are four more types caregivers should know:

1️⃣ Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD)

Not everyone with Parkinson’s develops dementia, but 50-80% do in later stages. It often appears years after movement symptoms like tremors and stiffness begin.

Key Symptoms:

✔️ Slowed thinking and problem-solving difficulties.
✔️ Hallucinations and paranoia.
✔️ Trouble following instructions or making decisions.

What Caregivers Should Know:

✔️ Medication matters: Some Parkinson’s drugs worsen cognitive symptoms—work closely with doctors.
✔️ Make the home safe: Prevent falls by removing trip hazards like rugs.
✔️ Balance movement and cognitive support: Parkinson’s affects both body and mind, so a tailored care plan is essential.

2️⃣ Mixed Dementia

This occurs when someone has two or more types of dementia simultaneously, like Alzheimer’s + Vascular Dementia. It’s more common than diagnosed, as symptoms often overlap.

Key Symptoms:

✔️ Memory loss (like Alzheimer’s).
✔️ Slowed thinking and decision-making issues (like Vascular Dementia).
✔️ Potential behavior or motor symptoms (depending on the combination).

What Caregivers Should Know:

✔️ Symptoms may fluctuate daily—some days are better than others.
✔️ Tailored care is key: Understanding all present conditions can improve support.
✔️ Watch for unexpected behavior changes—they might indicate another dementia type is involved.

3️⃣ Alcohol-Related Dementia (Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome)

Caused by long-term alcohol use and a severe Vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency, this dementia affects memory, behavior, and coordination.

Key Symptoms:

✔️ Severe memory loss—especially trouble learning new things.
✔️ Disorientation & confusion.
✔️ Drastic personality changes, irritability, or impulsivity.
✔️ Balance & coordination issues—frequent falls, unsteady walking.

What Caregivers Should Know:

✔️ Unlike other dementias, some symptoms may improve if caught early and alcohol use stops.
✔️ Thiamine supplements & proper nutrition can slow or even stabilize symptoms.

4️⃣ Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

One of the rarest and fastest-progressing types of dementia, CJD causes severe decline within months. It’s caused by abnormal proteins that rapidly damage the brain.

Key Symptoms:

✔️ Rapid memory loss—progressing within months instead of years.
✔️ Sudden personality changes—depression, anxiety, mood swings.
✔️ Severe coordination issues—trouble walking, frequent falls, muscle stiffness.
✔️ Involuntary muscle movements—twitches, jerks (myoclonus).

What Caregivers Should Know:

✔️ No cure—focus on comfort and symptom management.
✔️ Early diagnosis helps caregivers prepare for rapid progression.
✔️ Prioritize quality of life—gentle care, familiar music, and soothing routines can help.

Why Knowing the Type of Dementia Matters

Each form of dementia impacts people differently, meaning caregiving should be tailored to the specific condition. Understanding your loved one’s diagnosis helps with:
✔️ Advocating for the right medical care
✔️ Adjusting caregiving strategies to match symptoms
✔️ Providing emotional and physical support in the best way possible

Next week, we’ll dive into dementia progression—is it really a straight line? Stay tuned!

You Are Not Alone

🫂 Join the Conversation:

• Need a community where you can ask for help and get real support? Join my FREE Caregiver Support Group here 👉 Dementia Caregivers Success & Support Network.

📚 Resources to Support You:

• Explore the Dementia Caregivers Academy Course for in-depth strategies and support.

PS.

This video is also posted on our YouTube Channel!

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