There are differences between frontal lobe dementia and Alzheimer’s, just like there are differences in many other cognitive disorders.
Dementia represents a group of different memory disorders in senior citizens, and Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. It is known that Alzheimer’s disease makes up over 50% of all registered dementia related cases.
So, although a large percentage of memory loss can be credited to Alzheimer’s disease, it can also be caused by atherosclerosis, neurological disorders, and strokes.
It is possible to slow down Alzheimer’s disease by medication and non-drug treatments. In general, when doctors are treating
Alzheimer’s patients, they are normally trying to treat the symptoms that it is causing.
Most dementia related disorders can be controlled by eating healthy foods with smaller portions, and through regular exercise. At Applewood Our House in Lakewood, Golden and Arvada, we have dietician created menus for our residents and many exercise related programs. In addition, patients who stop smoking and cut down on alcohol or quit, will notice immediate benefits. Dementia that is caused by heart problems and other cardiovascular issues can be helped by lowering the blood pressure.
The Difference Between Frontal Lobe Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Frontal lobe dementia directly affects the frontal lobe that is found behind the forehead. It also impacts the temporal lobe region that sits behind your ears. Therefore, it is also referred to as frontotemporal dementia.
Here are the major differences between frontal lobe dementia and Alzheimer’s disease:
- Hallucinations – Delusions and hallucinations are prevalent in Alzheimer’s disease, but are seldom seen in frontal lobe dementia.
- Getting Lost – Alzheimer’s patients are more likely to suffer from the affects of spatial orientation, wander off, and not remember where they are.
- Earlier Diagnosis – Frontal lobe dementia sufferers tend to be diagnosed much earlier than Alzheimer’s patients.
- Change in Behavior – Behavioral changes normally occur later in Alzheimer’s disease cases, but are usually one of the early signs in frontal lobe dementia.
- Memory Loss – Alzheimer’s disease is likely to cause memory loss much early than frontal lobe dementia.
- Speech Issues – Frontal lobe dementia sufferers have more difficulty with speech disorders than Alzheimer’s patients. Alzheimer’s patients can also have problems with forgetting words and thoughts.
Treatment Alternatives for Frontal Lobe Dementia
Frontal lobe dementia is treated for the symptoms, just like Alzheimer’s disease. Antidepressant drugs as well as antipsychotic drugs can be taken to deal with the symptoms of hallucinations.
Medical researchers are always at work to search for a possible cure. However, there is no cure for frontal lobe dementia. However, the average sufferer can live with the illness for up to 20 years or more with proper diagnosis and treatments.
The Difference Between Frontal Lobe Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease – Conclusion
As this article clearly states, there is a difference between frontal lobe dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Yet, there are just as many likenesses between them. Family members need to have their elderly loved ones checked often for any brain disorders. Remember, it will take doctors time to come up with a proper diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementia illnesses.
Applewood Our House in Lakewood, Golden and Arvada work with our residents and their doctors to ensure that they are getting regular checkups and the right diagnosis. By checking these disorders early on, you are likely to ensure that your loved one lives longer and has a better outlook on life.
