World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 – September 21st 2025

Knowledge Bites

Difference between Dementia and Alzheimer’s?

Dementia

• Definition: 

A general term for a significant decline in cognitive abilities (memory, thinking, reasoning) severe enough to interfere with daily activities. 

• Causes: 

Dementia can be caused by many conditions, such as stroke (vascular dementia), brain injuries, infections, or Alzheimer’s disease. 

• Symptoms: 

Symptoms vary depending on the cause but can include problems with memory, language, concentration, and mood changes. 

Alzheimer’s Disease

• Definition: 

A progressive brain disease that causes the gradual loss of cognitive function. 

• Relationship to Dementia: 

It is the most common underlying cause of dementia, affecting 60-70% of dementia cases. 

• Symptoms: 

Early symptoms can be subtle, but as the disease progresses, they can become severe enough to be classified as dementia, affecting memory, problem-solving, and daily tasks.