Dementia is not a disease — it is a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, behavior, communication, and the ability to carry out daily life. These symptoms may include: Memory loss; Confusion or disorientation; Changes in mood or personality; Difficulty with language; Impaired judgment; Changes in perception or movement There are many types of dementia, and the type matters. Depending on the type, it changes how we approach, support, and communicate with the person. For example: - Alzheimer’s disease often impacts short-term memory first. - Lewy body dementia may involve visual hallucinations and movement changes. - Frontotemporal dementia may show up first as personality or behavioral changes. - Vascular dementia may affect processing speed and executive function. - Understanding the type helps us respond with more compassion, intention, and effectiveness. Dementia isn’t just about forgetting. It’s about learning how to connect differently.