Dementia is not a single disease. It’s a broad term used to describe progressive brain conditions that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and daily life.
Symptoms often develop gradually and vary from person to person. While there is no cure, supportive care and therapies can help slow progression and protect quality of life.
The level of care a senior receives, along with the stage of dementia, plays an important role in overall well-being. That is why The Kensington Reston is guided by Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.
This guide explains the types of dementia, the most common forms, how they are diagnosed, and how care needs may change over time.
Understanding the Different Types of Dementia
There are four main types of dementia most commonly diagnosed. Each affects the brain differently and may progress at its own pace.
The four main types of dementia are:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Dementia with Lewy bodies
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Vascular dementia
Care approaches often depend on the specific type of dementia and how symptoms present over time.
Even when a resident has not yet shown signs of dementia, having trained team members who can recognize early changes may provide families with added peace of mind.
This is one reason some families begin exploring assisted living or memory care earlier rather than when a crisis arises.
How Doctors Diagnose the Type of Dementia
As people age, it is normal to lose some nerve cells. Dementia, however, involves far more significant changes in brain function.
Symptoms can overlap between different types of dementia, and some individuals may experience more than one form at the same time. This can make diagnosis complex.
Doctors may use:
- Medical history reviews
- Physical examinations
- Neurological assessments
- Laboratory testing
- Brain imaging
These tools help determine whether dementia is present and which type may be affecting the individual.
Dementia With Lewy Bodies: Symptoms and Characteristics
Dementia with Lewy bodies is caused by abnormal protein deposits, known as Lewy bodies, that disrupt communication between brain cells.
It is closely related to Parkinson’s disease dementia, and the distinction often depends on whether cognitive or motor symptoms appear first.
Common Symptoms of Dementia With Lewy Bodies
- Difficulty concentrating or staying alert
- Disorganized thinking
- Muscle rigidity or coordination challenges
- Sleep disturbances
- Visual hallucinations
Lewy body dementia is most often diagnosed in adults over age 50.
Frontotemporal Dementia and Early Warning Signs
Frontotemporal dementia affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which are responsible for behavior, personality, language, and decision-making.
Protein buildup in these areas leads to noticeable changes that may appear earlier than in other types of dementia.
Common Symptoms of Frontotemporal Dementia
- Personality or behavioral changes
- Difficulty planning or organizing
- Impulsive behaviors
- Language and speech challenges
- Movement or balance issues
Frontotemporal dementia is often diagnosed between the ages of 45 and 64.
Vascular Dementia Caused By Strokes
Vascular dementia occurs when blood flow to the brain is reduced due to conditions such as strokes or mini-strokes.
These events may occur without clear warning signs, and symptoms depend on which part of the brain is affected.
Common Symptoms of Vascular Dementia
- Forgetfulness
- Misplacing items
- Difficulty following instructions
- Poor judgment
- Hallucinations or delusions
Vascular dementia is most often diagnosed in adults over age 65.
Alzheimer’s Disease, The Most Common Type of Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is the most widely recognized type of dementia. It is associated with abnormal protein deposits that interfere with brain cell function.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s typically worsen over time and progress through stages.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Early stage
- Getting lost or wandering
- Repeating questions
Moderate stage
- Difficulty recognizing loved ones
- Changes in behavior or judgment
Advanced stage
- Limited ability to communicate
Alzheimer’s disease is most commonly diagnosed in older adults, though an earlier onset is possible.
What is Mixed Dementia?
Some individuals experience mixed dementia, meaning more than one type of dementia is present at the same time.
This can make symptoms harder to interpret and care planning more complex, as different conditions may progress simultaneously.
Common Risk Factors for Developing Dementia
Some dementia risk factors, such as age and genetics, cannot be changed.
Others may be influenced by lifestyle and overall health, including:
- Nutrition and physical activity
- Alcohol use
- Smoking
- Sleep quality
- Mental health support
Addressing modifiable risks may help reduce unnecessary strain on brain health.
How Dementia Care Needs Change Over Time
Dementia affects every individual differently, and care needs often evolve over time.
The Kensington Reston offers levels of memory care designed to support independence while providing appropriate oversight as needs change.
Programs such as The Kensington Club support individuals with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage memory loss.
Community-based programs like memory cafes also provide safe, welcoming environments for social connection and caregiver support.
When Advanced Dementia Care Is Needed
Advanced dementia care is needed when a person’s cognitive, physical, and safety needs can no longer be met through basic family support or supervision alone.
At this stage, dementia symptoms often include:
- Severe memory loss
- Inability to communicate needs clearly
- Difficulty with walking or eating
- Increased vulnerability to medical complications
Some seniors experience a rapid progression of dementia and increasingly require frequent monitoring to maintain safety and comfort.
Advanced Dementia Care in Reston
The Kensington Reston offers advanced levels of care for residents with higher acuity needs, allowing them to remain in the same community as care requirements increase.
Haven is our dedicated memory care neighborhood for residents living with moderate-to-late stage dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Dedicated team members provide ongoing observation and support, reducing the need for disruptive transitions.
The Kensington Reston’s Approach to Dementia Care
A dementia diagnosis affects the entire family, and understanding the condition is only one part of the journey.
The Kensington Reston’s Promise is to care for your loved one with compassion, dignity, and clinical expertise. Our life-enrichment programs, including music therapy and personalized activities, support emotional well-being alongside medical needs.
If you’re navigating questions about dementia or exploring care options for the type of dementia your loved one is living with, contact The Kensington Reston to learn how our community can support your loved one’s quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Types of Dementia
There are four main types of dementia: Alzheimer’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, frontotemporal dementia, and vascular dementia.
Yes, mixed dementia occurs when more than one type is present at the same time.
No. Alzheimer’s disease is one type of dementia, but not all dementia is Alzheimer’s.
Dementia is more common after age 65, though some types can develop earlier.
Memory care may be appropriate when cognitive changes begin to affect safety, daily routines, or quality of life.