Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells, which affects how information is processed and communicated. While memory loss is often the most recognised symptom, it is not always the first or most prominent sign. Changes in language, behaviour, mobility, judgement and emotional responses can all be early indicators, depending on the diagnosis.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It is typically associated with gradual memory loss, difficulties with language, and difficulties with reasoning or problem solving. In the UK, around one in fourteen people over the age of 65 live with Alzheimer’s, rising to one in six over the age of 80. The condition is degenerative and usually progresses slowly, although early onset Alzheimer’s, which affects people under 65, can develop more rapidly. In the earlier stages, individuals may still live relatively independently with the right support, but as the condition advances, more specialist care is often required.
Vascular dementia is the second most common type and is linked to reduced blood flow to the brain. This can be caused by strokes, transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), heart disease or diabetes. Symptoms often include confusion, slowed thinking, difficulties with problem solving and memory loss. Unlike Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia may progress in a more step-like way, with noticeable changes following further vascular events. Many people receive a mixed diagnosis of both Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, which can add complexity to care planning.
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is less common but can be particularly challenging. It often presents with changes in behaviour, personality and language rather than memory loss in the early stages. People may struggle to find words, lose their social filter, or show a reduced sense of empathy. Word recognition is usually affected later in the condition, which can make it harder for families to recognise dementia early on, especially when the person is younger.
Parkinson’s-related dementia often develops in people who have been living with Parkinson’s disease for some time. Alongside the physical symptoms associated with Parkinson’s, such as reduced mobility and movement difficulties, individuals may experience cognitive decline, memory loss and challenges with speech or word finding. Care needs often increase gradually and must balance both physical support and cognitive care as the condition progresses. There are around 100,000 people living in the UK with this type of dementia.
Dementia with Lewy bodies is a distinct diagnosis, although it shares some similarities with Parkinson’s-related dementia. It commonly affects cognition earlier, with individuals experiencing pronounced fluctuations in attention and alertness. Visual hallucinations, disturbed sleep patterns and strong feelings of paranoia are also common. These symptoms can be particularly distressing and require highly tailored care approaches and environments that can respond flexibly to changing needs.
Another form of cognitive impairment linked to dementia is Korsakoff’s syndrome, which is associated with long-term alcohol misuse. This condition can severely affect long-term memory and the ability to form new memories, highlighting how lifestyle factors can also play a role in brain health.
Given this wide variation, dementia care is never one size fits all. Choosing the right care setting means understanding not only the diagnosis, but how the condition presents in the individual. Residential care homes may be well suited to people living with lower-level dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia, while more complex diagnoses or advanced stages may require nursing or specialist dementia care. Honest conversations are vital. Families should feel confident in asking how the home supports different behaviours, how care adapts as needs change, and whether support can continue through to end of life if required.
Equally important is how dementia care supports families. Open communication, regular reviews, and clear points of contact help families feel informed and involved throughout the journey. As dementia progresses, legal considerations such as capacity, consent and lasting power of attorney become increasingly important, ensuring that decisions continue to reflect the individual’s wishes and best interests. For information on decision-making, capacity and consent in care, click here to read our article on the subject.
Dementia may change many things, but with the right understanding and the right care, people can continue to live with dignity, connection and meaningful support at every stage of their care journey.
Belmont Healthcare supports individuals and families, offering residential, nursing and specialist dementia care tailored to each person’s needs. Our approach is built on understanding the individual behind the diagnosis, supporting families through open communication, and adapting care as needs change over time.
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