Senile Dementia:
- Definition: Senile dementia is a general term used to describe a cognitive impairment that affects memory, thinking and social skills in older people. It is not a specific disease, but a set of symptoms that can be caused by various conditions.
- Causes: It can be caused by multiple factors, including vascular diseases, nutritional deficiencies, infections, or conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
- Symptoms: Symptoms can vary widely and may include confusion, memory problems, personality changes, and difficulties performing daily activities.
- Progression: The progression of senile dementia can be variable and depends on the underlying cause of dementia.
causes dementia.
Alzheimer’s:
- Definition: Alzheimer’s is a specific neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia. It is characterized by the progressive loss of memory and other cognitive functions.
- Causes: It is associated with the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain (beta-amyloid and tau) that damage brain cells.
- Symptoms: Initial symptoms usually include recent memory loss, confusion, and difficulty performing everyday tasks. As it progresses, there may be language problems, disorientation, and behavioral changes.
- Progression: Alzheimer’s tends to have a more predictable and gradual progression, with clearly defined stages.
Summary:
– Senile dementia is a broad term that encompasses several types of cognitive impairment, while Alzheimer’s is a specific disease that causes dementia.
– Symptoms and progression can vary in senile dementia, while Alzheimer’s has a more defined pattern.
