Understanding Dementia: A Guide for Families
When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it can feel overwhelming. Understanding what dementia is — and what it isn't — is the first step toward providing the best possible care and support.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease. It's an umbrella term for a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases, but there are others including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Recognizing the Signs
Early signs of dementia can be subtle and are sometimes dismissed as normal aging. Watch for:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Difficulty planning or solving problems
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Changes in mood or personality
If you notice these signs in a loved one, consult their physician. Early diagnosis allows for better planning and access to treatments that can help manage symptoms.
How Dementia Progresses
Dementia is generally progressive, meaning symptoms worsen over time. The pace varies greatly from person to person. In early stages, a person may need only minimal assistance. In later stages, round-the-clock care becomes necessary.
At Golden Pines, we work with families at every stage to provide the right level of care and to adjust as needs change.
Supporting Your Loved One
- Be patient. Repetition, confusion, and frustration are part of the condition — not a choice.
- Maintain routines. Consistency helps reduce anxiety and confusion.
- Focus on what they can do, not what they've lost.
- Stay connected. Visits, phone calls, and familiar faces matter enormously, even when your loved one may not always show it.
You are not alone in this. Our team at Golden Pines is here to help guide you through every step.