Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia in Edmonton and Surrounding Areas. . .
When a loved one begins to show signs of memory loss, confusion, or personality changes, it can be difficult to know what’s happening — or how to help. Two terms often mentioned during this time are Alzheimer’s and dementia. Though frequently used interchangeably, they are not the same. At Incubate Home Care, we believe that understanding the differences, causes, and signs of these conditions is a vital step toward compassionate and effective care.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is not a specific disease — it’s an umbrella term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. Dementia is caused by damage to brain cells, which interferes with their ability to communicate with each other.
There are many types of dementia, including:
Alzheimer’s disease
Vascular dementia
Lewy body dementia
Frontotemporal dementia
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of cases. It is a progressive neurological disorder that slowly destroys memory and cognitive skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out even simple tasks.
Common early signs of Alzheimer’s include:
Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations
Repeating questions or statements
Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
Becoming confused about time or place
Changes in mood, personality, or judgment
What Causes Alzheimer’s and Dementia?
While the exact causes are not fully understood, research shows that both genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the onset of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Age is the biggest risk factor, though dementia is not a normal part of aging.
Other risk factors include:
Family history
Cardiovascular issues
Head injuries
Lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lack of physical activity
How Can Home Care Help?
At Incubate Home Care, we specialize in supporting individuals and families affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s. Our caregivers are trained to:
Provide safe, structured routines
Offer memory care and emotional support
Monitor health changes and communicate with families
Encourage engagement and meaningful activities
Help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, meals, and medication
We understand the emotional challenges that come with caring for someone with cognitive decline — and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
When to Seek Help
If you or a loved one are noticing signs of memory loss or behavioral changes, don’t ignore them. Early diagnosis can improve quality of life and allow for better planning and care.
Reach out to your doctor or contact our team at Incubate Home Care for a compassionate consultation. We’re committed to providing respectful, personalized support that honors the dignity of every client.