Dementia. Alzheimer’s. Brain Change. Cognitive Decline.
As I get out to the networking circuit ~ (BNI and LeTip business networking meetings, workshops, educational fairs, etc.) ~ with information on my new business, I learned that I am using in-industry language, as much as I try and be aware and to not do this. I have tended to use the word dementia rather than Alzheimer’s very intentionally. And, I am so grateful for an email which thanked me for my work since he has a friend “with Alzheimer’s, which I know is different than dementia, but similar.” Yikes! I realized I needed to be more aware of my word choices with various audiences as I work to expand care and awareness about these diseases.
Dementia is a broad term used to describe a group of diseases that may cause the brain to fail gradually over time. Dementia is the umbrella term encompassing a variety of brain changes including: * Alzheimer’s Disease * Vascular (Multi-infarct) Dementia * Lewy Body Dementia * Fronto-Temporal Lobe Dementia * Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD) * and many others.
I like this image as it represents the general frequency of the various causes of dementia. (Thank you Dementia Connections of Calgary for the graphic.)
If you have questions about any of these I’ve listed, I am happy to be a resource for you. With accurate diagnosis, there is much more opportunity for friends and families to struggle less and connect more. Understanding what type of brain changes are occurring we can identify most successful ways to engage and help us to meet our loved one where their abilities allow.
Need more information and support? Book ONLINE with Annie!
Comments