Dementia & Alzheimer's | Acts of Love Christian Fellowship

Health information only: This page shares general educational information gathered from trusted public health organizations. It is not medical advice. Please talk with a doctor or qualified health professional about your own situation. In an emergency, call 911.

Understanding the basics

What is dementia?

Dementia is not a single disease. It is a general term for the loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Dementia is not a normal part of aging. Many people live into their 90s and beyond without any signs of it.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60–80% of cases.

7 million+Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's

~2×Older Black Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer's or other dementias as older white Americans

11 million+Family members and friends provide unpaid care

Know the difference

Common types of dementia

Alzheimer's disease

Caused by abnormal protein build-up (plaques and tangles) in the brain. Often begins with trouble remembering recent conversations, names, or events.

Vascular dementia

Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often after strokes. Strongly linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

Lewy body dementia

Can cause changes in thinking, visual hallucinations, movement problems similar to Parkinson's, and sleep disturbances.

Frontotemporal dementia

Affects the front and side areas of the brain. Often begins at a younger age with changes in personality, behavior, or language.

Mixed dementia

Many older adults have more than one type of dementia at the same time, such as Alzheimer's and vascular dementia together.

Conditions that mimic dementia

Thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, depression, and infections can cause memory problems that may be treatable. See a doctor.

Early warning signs

10 signs to watch for

Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as asking the same questions again and again
Trouble planning or solving problems, like following a recipe or paying bills
Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Confusion about time or place
Trouble understanding visual images and distances
New problems with words in speaking or writing
Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps
Decreased or poor judgment, such as with money
Withdrawal from work, church, or social activities
Changes in mood and personality

If you notice these signs in yourself or someone you love, talk with a doctor. Early diagnosis helps families plan and get support.

Brain health

Steps that may lower your risk

Control high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol
Stay physically active: walking counts!
Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fish
Do not smoke, and limit alcohol
Get good sleep
Protect your hearing and use hearing aids if needed
Stay socially connected through family, friends, and church
Keep your mind active: read, learn, play games, and sing
Prevent falls and head injuries

For caregivers

Caring for the caregiver

Learn and plan ahead

Learn about the disease and its stages. Plan early for legal, financial, and health care decisions while your loved one can take part.

Keep routines simple

Familiar daily routines, calm environments, and simple step-by-step instructions can reduce confusion and stress.

Ask for help

You do not have to do it alone. Accept help from family, church members, and respite care. Call the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.

Sources & further reading

Learn more from trusted organizations

The information on this page was summarized from the following sources. Visit them for complete, up-to-date details.

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