Dementia looks different for everyone: Understanding the symptoms by type

Dementia isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s not just “memory loss” or “getting old.” It’s a complex group of symptoms that impact thinking, behaviour, emotion, and daily function—often in deeply personal and unpredictable ways. Because there are many different types of dementia, symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and stage of the condition. Recognising these differences is key to providing the right care and support.

Here’s a quick guide to four of the most common forms of dementia—and how their symptoms typically show up.

🧠 Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. It usually starts with subtle memory issues and slowly progresses.

Common symptoms:

• Short-term memory loss (e.g., repeating questions, forgetting recent events)

• Disorientation (e.g., getting lost in familiar places)

• Struggles with problem-solving or planning (e.g., managing finances)

• Mood changes, depression, or withdrawal

• Trouble with word-finding or following conversations

As Alzheimer’s advances, individuals may become increasingly confused, experience personality changes, and need help with everyday tasks.

❤️ Vascular Dementia

This type is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain—often following a stroke or a series of small strokes.

Common symptoms:

• Difficulty with concentration and decision-making

• Slowed thinking and poor attention span

• Physical weakness or paralysis (depending on stroke location)

• Emotional instability or apathy

• Memory loss (less prominent in early stages compared to Alzheimer’s)

Symptoms can appear suddenly and progress in steps rather than gradually.

🗣️ Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)

FTD affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain—areas responsible for personality, behaviour, and language. It often starts earlier in life (50s or 60s).

Common symptoms:

• Major changes in personality or behaviour (e.g., becoming rude, impulsive, or emotionally blunt)

• Loss of empathy

• Repetitive, compulsive behaviour

• Struggles with speech and language (e.g., word-finding difficulty, reduced speech output)

• A lack of insight into their condition

Unlike Alzheimer’s, memory may remain intact in the early stages of FTD.

👁️ Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)

DLB shares features with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases and can be tricky to diagnose.

Common symptoms:

• Visual hallucinations (often detailed and vivid)

• Sleep disturbances (acting out dreams, restlessness)

• Fluctuations in alertness and confusion (clear one day, confused the next)

• Parkinsonian symptoms (tremors, slow movement, stiffness)

• Memory loss (less severe than in Alzheimer’s early on)

Sensitivity to antipsychotic medication is also a key marker—people with DLB can react severely to certain drugs.

Why It Matters

Understanding the specific type of dementia is crucial because it informs how we care, communicate, and plan support. One person might struggle with making decisions but still remember birthdays; another might lose speech but still respond with affection. There’s no single “right” way dementia looks—and no one-size-fits-all approach to care.

If you’re caring for someone with dementia, remember: see the person, not just the diagnosis. Behaviour is communication. Stay patient, be curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for professional advice to tailor care to your loved one’s needs.