Dementia is a word that brings a lot of fear, confusion, and heartbreak to families — and understandably so. It’s not a single illness, but rather an umbrella term covering a wide range of progressive neurological disorders that affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday activities.

Each type of dementia has its own features and progression, and understanding these differences can be a lifeline for families trying to navigate care options.

At Maucare, we know firsthand how disorienting and emotionally draining the journey with dementia can be. We’re not here just to tick boxes — we are family caring for your family, and that means being by your side, explaining things in a way that makes sense, and providing care that’s genuinely tailored. So, let’s break down the different types of dementia and how you can recognise them.

What Is Dementia, Really?

Dementia isn’t a natural part of ageing, although age is a significant risk factor. It’s caused when the brain is damaged by diseases like Alzheimer’s or strokes. The symptoms go beyond the occasional forgetfulness many people associate with getting older. Dementia affects a person’s ability to remember, reason, communicate, and live independently.

While there are over 200 subtypes, several common forms make up the majority of diagnoses. Each presents its own challenges — but also offers insight into what kind of support can truly make a difference.

The Most Common Types of Dementia

1. Alzheimer’s Disease

This is the most well-known and common form, accounting for around 60–70% of dementia cases.

Key Symptoms:

• Memory loss (particularly of recent events)
• Difficulty finding words
• Disorientation, even in familiar places
• Confusion and behavioural changes

As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may struggle with day-to-day tasks, withdraw socially, and eventually require round-the-clock care. At Maucare, we often support clients in the early stages by introducing gentle companionship — and gradually evolve that support to meet increasing needs, including live-in care where appropriate.

2. Vascular Dementia

This type is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain — often after a stroke or a series of small, unnoticed “mini-strokes.”

Key Symptoms:

• Problems with planning or organising
• Slower thinking
• Trouble concentrating
• Sudden or step-like decline in abilities (rather than gradual)

Families often tell us that they notice changes happen in spurts, unlike the steady decline seen in Alzheimer’s. Maucare carers are trained to spot these fluctuations and adapt routines accordingly, ensuring safety without robbing the person of independence.

3. Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)

LBD is caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain known as Lewy bodies. It shares symptoms with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Key Symptoms:

• Fluctuating alertness and attention
• Visual hallucinations
• Movement difficulties similar to Parkinson’s
• Disturbed sleep, particularly acting out dreams

Caring for someone with LBD can be complex. One day they may be alert and interactive, the next day entirely confused or even aggressive. At Maucare, we use simulation-based training with our carers, helping them build confidence and sensitivity in managing these unpredictable changes.

4. Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)

FTD tends to affect people under 65, and often involves dramatic changes in personality and behaviour before memory is even affected.

Key Symptoms:

• Lack of empathy or emotional response
• Inappropriate social behaviour
• Obsessive routines or speech
• Language difficulties

This type can be especially heartbreaking for families, because it feels like the person you love is changing completely. We believe in being honest from day one — helping families understand the “why” behind these changes, and matching clients with carers who understand emotional nuance and boundaries.

5. Mixed Dementia

Sometimes, people have more than one type of dementia — most commonly Alzheimer’s mixed with vascular dementia.

Key Symptoms:

• A blend of memory loss and cognitive decline
• Compounded symptoms from both types
• Variable progression

Diagnosis isn’t always straightforward, and support needs can vary greatly. Maucare’s ethos is “for you, with you” — meaning we don’t just implement care plans, we co-create them with families and adapt them as things change.

Recognising Early Signs

We always encourage families to trust their instincts. If something feels “off,” it’s worth exploring.

Early warning signs may include:

• Forgetting names, appointments, or recent conversations
• Repeating questions or stories
• Struggling to follow a recipe or a set of instructions
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Mood swings or unusual behaviour
• Withdrawal from social activities

Many people delay seeking help because they fear what a diagnosis might mean. But early intervention can dramatically improve quality of life, not just for the person with dementia, but for their loved ones too.

Seeking the Right Care

Choosing the right support isn’t about services on a checklist — it’s about understanding, trust, and shared values. At Maucare, we tailor every care journey. We start where you are, whether that’s a few hours of companionship a week or full-time live-in care. And we grow with you.

We provide:

• Specialist dementia training for all staff — not just theory, but real-world simulations
• Continuity of carers to build meaningful relationships
• Transparent communication via family-accessible software
• Emotional and practical support for family members — including how to navigate NHS and social care systems

Our goal is always to reduce the burden on families while ensuring loved ones can live with dignity and comfort, in their own homes, for as long as safely possible.

A Final Thought from Shweta

Care is not just about doing tasks. It’s about showing up with compassion, with integrity, and with consistency. I’ve been on the front lines myself. I’ve cleaned, cooked, and held hands through some of life’s toughest moments. I’ve cried with families and fought systems to make sure someone’s last wish was respected. What drives me — and what drives Maucare — is simple: doing care the right way.

If you're unsure what kind of support your loved one needs, or even where to start, please reach out. We're not just here to provide a service. We're here to guide you every step of the way.

Because at Maucare, it's not just care. It’s family.