Understanding Dementia: Recognizing Types

When we talk about dementia, Alzheimer’s disease often takes the spotlight. But dementia isn’t one condition — it’s a collection of symptoms that can stem from several different diseases.

“Families are sometimes surprised to learn there’s more than one kind of dementia,” said Kace Escobedo, CTRS, CDP, PACE Center Manager at Franciscan Health. “Each type affects the brain differently and may require a different approach to care.”

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is not a disease in itself. It’s a term used to describe changes in brain function that interfere with daily life. These changes can include memory loss, judgment problems, communication struggles and behavior changes. Dementia may progress slowly or rapidly, depending on the cause.

“Not every case of dementia starts with forgetfulness,” Escobedo explained. “For some people, changes in personality, difficulty with planning or even visual hallucinations are the first signs something’s wrong.”

What Are The Different Types Of Dementia?

Understanding the types of dementia can help families prepare for specific symptoms and challenges. Types of dementia include:

• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form. Alzheimer's disease usually develops gradually, with memory loss being the most noticeable symptom early on.
• Lewy body dementia often includes movement issues, sleep problems and hallucinations. It’s sometimes misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease.
• Vascular dementia can happen after a stroke or due to long-term damage from poor circulation. Symptoms may appear suddenly.
• Frontal and temporal lobe dementia affects parts of the brain linked to behavior and language. It often appears in younger people, under age 65.
• Parkinson’s-related dementia may occur in later stages of Parkinson’s disease.

“Each type brings different challenges,” said Escobedo. “That’s why getting a clear diagnosis is so important.”

Behavior Is Communication

As dementia progresses, it affects how people express their needs. Frustration, fear or confusion may show up as restlessness, withdrawal or even anger.

“Behaviors are messages,” Escobedo said. “When someone refuses to bathe or becomes agitated, it may be their way to say they’re overwhelmed or don’t feel safe.”

Simple changes can help ease stressful moments. For example, you may use fewer words, demonstrate actions or maintain a calm tone. “We train caregivers to slow down, offer choices and focus on comfort over correction,” she added.

Understanding The Stages Of Dementia

Dementia progresses over time. When caregivers understand the stages, it can help them anticipate needs. There are typically seven stages, from no noticeable symptoms to very severe decline. In early stages, a person may forget recent events or struggle to find words. In moderate stages, they may need help with daily tasks. In the final stages, around-the-clock care may be necessary.

Families that know what to expect can plan and adapt care at each step.

Creating A Supportive Environment

It takes patience — and the right tools — to help someone with dementia.

At Franciscan Senior Health & Wellness, caregivers often recommend approaches like:

• The Positive Approach to Care™ uses body language, touch and simplified language to build trust.
• The Best Friends™ model encourages you to treat the person with dementia as you would your best friend — with empathy, humor and respect.
• Music therapy apps, like SingFit, use familiar songs to boost mood and stimulate the brain.
• Simple tech, like the GrandPad tablet, helps older adults stay connected to family through photos, calls and games.

Early Dementia Signs And What To Do

Not all memory changes are dementia, but there are some you shouldn’t ignore. Trouble managing daily tasks, losing track of time or repeating questions are signs of early cognitive decline.

“Sometimes it’s not dementia at all — it could be a medication reaction, a urinary tract infection or depression,” said Escobedo. “That’s why we always encourage people to get checked early.”

Early evaluation opens the door to resources, planning and care strategies that make a meaningful difference.

Tips For Caring For Someone With Dementia

A consistent daily schedule helps reduce stress and builds a sense of stability. Meals, medications and activities should occur at the same time each day whenever possible.

“Familiar rhythms give structure to a person who may feel lost in time or place,” Escobedo said. Try to build the day around:

• Regular mealtimes
• Short walks or light movement
• Music, puzzles or prayer

Additional strategies to improve care and safety:

• Use reminders, calendars and labels around the home
• Reduce distractions and noise to support focus
• Avoid arguments and instead redirect with calm reassurance
• Offer choices to maintain a sense of independence

Support For Caregivers

Caregiving can feel overwhelming, but help is available. Support groups, respite care and counseling services offer emotional support and practical guidance. It’s also helpful to talk to a social worker or healthcare provider about your needs and concerns as a caregiver.

“We remind families that you can’t pour from an empty cup,” said Escobedo. “It’s OK to ask for help, and it’s necessary to take breaks.”

Support resources include:

• Adult day services through Franciscan PACE
• Support groups for caregivers
• Respite care and caregiver counseling

Franciscan Health partners with local organizations and dementia educators to provide caregiver training, support groups and tools to make daily care more manageable.

“Dementia care isn’t about fixing — we meet people where they are,” Escobedo said. “When we shift our approach, we can bring calm into the chaos and dignity into every day.”

Advance Directives

Franciscan Health encourages patients to take charge of their healthcare. If your loved one already has an advance directive, please share a copy of their advance directives with us so we can include their wishes in their medical record. This helps ensure care aligns with their values as dementia progresses.

Staying Independent With Support: The PACE Program At Franciscan Health

The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) supports people age 55+ who need a higher level of daily care. It helps older adults stay safe at home longer with the right mix of medical, social and emotional support. You don’t need a physician referral, and participants do not have to be current Franciscan patients.

Franciscan Health offers four PACE locations in Indiana: Dyer, Michigan City, Lafayette and Greenwood/south Indianapolis. The goal is to keep older adults safe in their homes and able to live independently.

Discover how Franciscan Senior Health & Wellness can help you or a loved one stay safe, supported and at home longer.