Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Alzheimers and DementiaBeaumont's Speech and Language Pathology program provides services for individuals experiencing Alzheimer's disease or other dementing diseases. Because individuals go through several stages of change over time, ongoing suggestions, strategies, and resources can aid in maximizing communication and functioning. Caregivers also can benefit from information and support provided by our team.

The program may begin with formalized speech, language, cognitive and memory diagnostic testing to help determine a patient's strengths and weaknesses. Services may include suggestions and strategies, information and education, aids and resources, and a customized memory or communication book. In some cases, short-term individual or group treatment may be helpful for the individual. Caregiver support groups are also a part of the program.

What is the difference between Alzheimer's disease and dementia?
Dementia is of a class of neurological diseases which progressively get worse over time.Each disease has some specific symptoms although all of them involve regression in the skill(s) of speech, cognition, memory, language, and organization abilities. Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent and well-known of the dementing diseases.

Can memory skills improve? If so, how can I improve my memory skills?
Memory can be divided into two parts, long term and short term. Basic short term memory skills can be enhanced through practice or more practically by using techniques, strategies and organizational tools. Memory loss, especially short term, can often be attributed to a variety of reasons, some including a medical illness.

If I have memory loss does it mean I have dementia or Alzheimer's disease?
Memory loss can be attributed to a variety of causes such as depression, physical illness, medication or some neurologic disease. Not all memory loss is dementia. Dementia, associated with Alzheimer's disease, is a long term, progressive disease with a gradual onset usually in the later years of life. While Alzheimer's is progressive, one can be helped by using techniques, strategies and helpful tools to compensate for the memory loss and to function adequately in one's daily life.

Did You Know?

  • Ten percent of the population over the age of 65 have some form of dementia.