At Senior Care Villa of Loomis, we recognize that dementia can take various forms. Multiple other diseases look just the same as Alzheimer’s disease, but are actually not a kind of dementia. Even many doctors find themselves unsure about identifying the total of symptoms as Alzheimer’s while evaluating an individual’s condition.
It’s only after they perform a complete evaluation of the patient that they can determine the underlying cause of the patient’s symptoms. It’s vital to know how these common-looking health problems mimic the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease, as they are curable and thus need not be confused with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
Based on the findings, it can be determined whether professional Alzheimer care services are needed or if at-home care would be sufficient. Let’s cover nine health problems that look the same as Alzheimer’s disease but actually are different and are treatable with the proper treatment.
1. Malnourishment
The body needs its share of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, to function correctly. Deficiency of even a single mineral can manifest as symptoms including weight loss, fatigue, weakness, cognitive decline, and confusion. These are common to both Alzheimer’s disease and malnutrition, which may be caused by deficiencies in essential vitamins or minerals. Hence, a deeper evaluation is needed to understand the underlying cause of these symptoms occurring.
2. Depression
Another common ailment with which Alzheimer’s disease can be mistaken is depression. Both diseases share overlapping symptoms like apathy, social withdrawal, and difficulty concentrating. Depression often causes a condition called “pseudodementia” that causes cognitive impairment, where symptoms usually resemble dementia. However, the main difference between the two issues lies in their degree and nature of cognitive issues. Depression-related cognitive issues appear suddenly, causing feelings of hopelessness and a lack of pleasure. On the other hand, Alzheimer’s symptoms develop gradually and cause impairments of memory, language, and judgment.
3. Thyroid Problems
A thyroid imbalance, including both underactive (hypothyroidism) and overactive (hyperthyroidism), can cause cognitive symptoms like memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) often causes symptoms relating to problems with focus and memory, while overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause problems with focus and memory. Because common symptoms can occur, a healthcare expert may order a thyroid hormone test via blood to evaluate the underlying cause.
4. Medication Side Effects
Seniors taking multiple medications are more susceptible to facing symptoms that look the same as those caused by Alzheimer’s. They may experience confusion, memory problems, mood or behavioral changes, or drowsiness or lethargy.
The following is a list of diseases that can cause cognitive problems, as seen in Alzheimer’s as well.
- Anti-anxiety medication
- Corticosteroids
- Sedatives
- Antidepressants
- Cardiovascular drugs
- Acid reflux drugs
- Sleeping pills
- Cholesterol drugs
- Antihistamines
- Narcotics
5. Diabetes
Poorly managed diabetes, especially hypoglycemia, can cause memory loss, difficulty with familiar tasks, confusion, poor judgment, and mood changes. It causes symptoms that mimic early dementia. This happens especially in the case of “type 3 diabetes”—a condition characterized by brain insulin resistance. It’s important to distinguish the conditions and, accordingly, find a workable solution for the symptoms. Consistent management can help prevent or reverse these symptoms caused by diabetes.
6. Infections
Certain infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs), can cause sudden confusion, disorientation, behavioral changes, and memory problems in seniors. Lyme disease can also affect the nervous system, which causes memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. These symptoms often disappear once the infection is cleared. At times, a longer treatment may be required for complete recovery, after which the individual experiences relief from the cognitive symptoms.
7. Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders can also manifest different overlapping symptoms that might resemble those caused by Alzheimer’s. Some examples include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and confusion, primarily caused by sleep deprivation and disruption. Sleep apnea can lead to poor sleep quality, which in turn can cause forgetfulness and trouble with planning, mirroring dementia symptoms.
8. Stroke Or Mini-Strokes
These can be mistaken for Alzheimer’s, as both conditions may cause cognitive problems like cognitive impairment, including memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with thinking. Even some strokes lead to vascular dementia. The confusion between the two arises mainly as Alzheimer’s generally causes a gradual decline, while a stroke, especially a major one, can cause the sudden onset of symptoms. Moreover, those who experience a series of mini-strokes may not even realize they had them, making it even more challenging to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.
9. Alcohol Abuse
Regular consumption of alcohol in excessive quantities—alcohol abuse—is another potent cause of ambiguity about the underlying causes of symptoms of memory loss, confusion, poor judgment, and personality changes. Long-term, excessive alcohol consumption can cause alcohol-related dementia (ARD), which shares many common cognitive and behavioral signs with age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s. However, the real problem arises during the diagnosis, as alcohol abuse mimics many of the previously mentioned dementia symptoms.
Senior Care Villa of Loomis – Access Professional Alzheimer’s Care Services
At Senior Care Villa of Loomis, we understand how important it is to document the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease. Getting a diagnosis early is key to managing symptoms and their progression with adequate treatment. However, due to a lack of sufficient knowledge and appropriate information about the symptoms, families and sometimes even doctors can misdiagnose other conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Mimicking identical symptoms of Alzheimer’s, these health conditions make it challenging for healthcare professionals to conclude the underlying cause. While some of the above-mentioned health problems are acute diseases, they still can mimic the symptoms caused by Alzheimer’s. Whether it’s for Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, seniors need to access professional care promptly. And for that, you can trust Senior Care Villa of Loomis.
We boast memory care spaces designed by a dementia care expert, which demonstrate the safe, secure living environment residents enjoy with us. At Senior Care Villa of Loomis, we celebrate life by fostering a safe, compassionate, and joyful environment for everyone. Residents access personalized care plans tailored to their evolving comprehensive needs.
To learn more about how we can be the right fit for your loved one’s dementia care needs, schedule your tour today.
