A Simple Guide to the 4 Main Types of Dementia

Date: October 31, 2025 | Article | Reading Time: 5 minutes

Dementia goes beyond normal age-related forgetfulness. While misplacing keys or forgetting a name occasionally can be part of aging, dementia involves a persistent and progressive cognitive decline that interferes with daily life. Continue reading to explore the 4 main types of dementia.

Common symptoms include:

Memory loss – especially short-term memory challenges
Confusion or difficulty recognizing familiar people or places
Struggles with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as cooking, dressing or managing finances
Changes in mood or behavior, including irritability, withdrawal or paranoia

Over time, dementia can affect not just thinking and memory, but also emotional well-being, independence, and social connections. That’s why it’s important for families to understand the different forms dementia can take.

A senior woman sitting down on her coach thinking about the 4 Main Types of Dementia.

The 4 Main Types of Dementia

1. Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of cases. It typically begins with short-term memory problems, such as forgetting recent conversations or appointments. Over time, individuals may get lost in familiar places, struggle with language or have difficulty completing ADLs.

Behavioral changes often appear as well – irritability, paranoia, or a loss of interest in hobbies and social interactions.

Diagnosis and Tests: Doctors may use cognitive assessments, brain imaging, and lab work to confirm Alzheimer’s.

Management and Treatment: While there is no cure, medications can slow progression and help manage symptoms (Alzheimer’s Association®). Therapies, structured routines, and lifestyle strategies – like physical activity and mental engagement – also play an important role.

2. Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)

Lewy body dementia occurs when abnormal protein deposits, called Lewy bodies, build up in the brain. This condition shares some features with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease (Mayo Clinic).

Key symptoms include visual hallucinations, fluctuations in alertness, movement problems similar to Parkinson’s, and sleep disturbances. Family members may also notice increased anxiety, paranoia or attention difficulties.

Diagnosis and Tests: Neurological exams, sleep studies, and imaging tests help detect LBD.

Management and Treatment: Medications and therapy can help ease symptoms, while adjustments in the home or care environment – such as consistent routines and safe spaces – support daily living.

3. Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia is the second most common type and is linked to reduced blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke or due to cardiovascular disease (Alzheimer’s Society).

Symptoms may appear suddenly or progress gradually. These can include confusion, difficulty planning or organizing, memory issues, fatigue, and even physical aches. Mood changes, frustration, and loss of interest in activities are also common.

Diagnosis and Tests: Brain scans, blood pressure checks, and cardiovascular assessments help confirm vascular dementia.

Management and Treatment: Managing underlying conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes, is crucial. Medications, cognitive therapy, and lifestyle interventions – such as exercise and a healthy diet – can improve quality of life.

4. Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)

Unlike other dementias, frontotemporal dementia primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which control behavior, personality, and language (Alzheimer’s Association®).

Early signs often include sudden changes in behavior, impulsivity or inappropriate social actions. Loved ones may also notice difficulties with speech, reduced empathy or compulsive habits.

Diagnosis and Tests: Neurological exams, imaging studies, and speech assessments are used for diagnosis.

Management and Treatment: While there are no treatments to stop progression, therapies, behavioral strategies, and medications can help manage symptoms. Family education and supportive care environments are especially important.

Supporting Loved Ones with Dementia

Caring for someone with dementia can feel overwhelming, but small strategies can make a big difference in daily life:

Simplify ADLs, such as cooking, dressing or navigating familiar spaces.
Create structured routines that reduce confusion and provide comfort.
Use communication techniques, such as speaking slowly, offering reassurance, and avoiding confrontation.
Address behavioral changes, like paranoia or agitation, with patience and redirection.
Prioritize safety with adjustments at home or within a specialized care community.

At The Delaney® at The Green, we tailor support to the unique needs of each resident. Whether someone is living with Alzheimer’s, Lewy body, vascular, or frontotemporal dementia, our goal is to help them maintain independence and engage in meaningful activities.

Portrait of a happy senior couple sitting on sofa at home after talking about the 4 Main Types of Dementia.

Tests, Treatments, and Symptom Management

Early detection is key to managing dementia effectively. Common medical tools include cognitive assessments, brain imaging, and lab tests to rule out other conditions.

Treatment for the 4 main types of dementia typically involves a combination of approaches, including:

Medications that may slow cognitive decline or reduce symptoms like paranoia or depression
Therapies, including speech, occupational, or cognitive therapy
Lifestyle strategies, such as physical activity, social engagement, and structured routines
Environmental adjustments that reduce confusion and create a calming atmosphere

At The Delaney at The Green, we take a holistic approach – addressing not only physical health, but also emotional well-being, social connection, and daily engagement.

Memory Care at The Delaney For the 4 Main Types of Dementia

Understanding the four main types of dementia helps families recognize the differences in symptoms, treatments, and care needs. While every journey is unique, early recognition and compassionate support can make all the difference in maintaining safety, independence, and quality of life.

At The Delaney at The Green, we understand the unique challenges of dementia and provide personalized, compassionate memory care for every resident with Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care Program®. If you’re noticing signs of cognitive decline in a loved one, let us help you explore care options that support both safety and quality of life.