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The Most Common Types of Dementia: A Guide by Sunol Creek Memory Care

The Most Common Types of Dementia: A Guide by Sunol Creek Memory Care

Dementia is a general term for cognitive decline severe enough to interfere with daily life. While many people associate dementia with Alzheimer’s disease, there are actually more than 100 types of dementia, each with unique symptoms and causes. Some individuals may even develop mixed dementia, experiencing multiple types at once.

At Sunol Creek Memory Care, a specialized memory care community in Pleasanton, CA, we are dedicated to supporting individuals living with dementia and their families. Understanding the most common types of dementia can help caregivers recognize early signs and seek the best possible care. Here are some of the most common types:

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of cases. It typically affects individuals over 65 and is characterized by:
✅ Memory loss
✅ Difficulty with language and communication
✅ Disorientation and confusion
✅ Behavioral changes and mood swings

Alzheimer’s is caused by abnormal buildups of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, leading to neuron damage. At Sunol Creek Memory Care, we provide specialized Alzheimer’s care with personalized support tailored to each resident’s needs.

Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia and occurs due to reduced blood flow to the brain, often caused by strokes or other vascular conditions. Common symptoms include:
✅ Impaired judgment
✅ Trouble with planning and organization
✅ Reduced attention span

Since vascular dementia is linked to heart health, managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes can help reduce the risk. Our Pleasanton memory care team creates a supportive environment to help residents with vascular dementia maintain a fulfilling lifestyle.

Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)

Lewy body dementia is caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, leading to:
✅ Cognitive fluctuations (good and bad days)
Visual hallucinations
Motor symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease
✅ Sleep disturbances

This type of dementia can be complex, as symptoms overlap with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. At Sunol Creek Memory Care in Pleasanton, our expert team is trained to recognize and manage the unique challenges of Lewy body dementia.

Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)

FTD is a group of brain disorders that primarily affect personality, behavior, and language, rather than memory loss in the early stages. Symptoms include:
✅ Personality and mood changes
✅ Loss of empathy or inappropriate social behavior
✅ Trouble with language and communication

FTD typically affects younger individuals, often between 45 and 64 years old. Families seeking frontotemporal dementia care in Pleasanton can trust Sunol Creek Memory Care for compassionate and individualized support.

Mixed Dementia

Mixed dementia occurs when a person has two or more types of dementia at the same time—most commonly, a combination of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Because symptoms can vary, it can be challenging to diagnose. Our Pleasanton memory care specialists provide comprehensive support to manage mixed dementia effectively.

Compassionate Dementia Care in Pleasanton, CA

Recognizing the signs of dementia early is crucial for proper diagnosis and management. If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss, confusion, or changes in behavior, seeking professional memory care can help improve quality of life.

At Sunol Creek Memory Care in Pleasanton, we provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for individuals with dementia. Our highly trained caregivers offer personalized care plans, engaging activities, and specialized support tailored to each resident’s needs.

Schedule a Tour Today!

If you’re searching for expert memory care in Pleasanton, CA, we invite you to visit Sunol Creek Memory Care and learn more about our specialized programs. Call us at 925-846-8283, email info@sunolcreekmemorycare.com or contact us online to schedule a tour today.

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