Mind Matters: Understanding the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s in 2025

At The Lansky Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming it can be when a loved one is diagnosed with a cognitive condition. The uncertainty, emotional weight, and planning involved can leave families searching for clarity. As of 2025, Alzheimer’s disease continues to be the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60% to 80% of all dementia diagnoses worldwide.

In the United States alone, over 7.2 million adults aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia. Without significant medical advancements, that number is projected to nearly double to 13.8 million by 2060. These figures reflect more than just a growing public health concern—they represent a call for early planning, thoughtful support, and trusted legal guidance from firms like The Lansky Law Firm.

Dementia: A Broad Range of Cognitive Decline

Dementia is not one single disease—it is a broad term that refers to various conditions that affect memory, reasoning, communication, and the ability to perform daily tasks. Dementia is an umbrella term, encompassing disorders such as:

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Vascular dementia

• Lewy body dementia

• Frontotemporal dementia

Common symptoms across these conditions include confusion, impaired reasoning, forgetfulness, and difficulty with language or decision-making. At The Lansky Law Firm, we frequently help families understand what a diagnosis means, what steps to take next, and how to plan legally and financially for the road ahead.

Alzheimer’s Disease: The Most Recognized Form of Dementia

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease caused by the accumulation of harmful proteins that disrupt brain cell function. It is marked by a gradual decline in memory, personality, and functional abilities.

This disease disproportionately impacts certain populations:

• Older adults – Approximately 74% of people with Alzheimer’s are aged 75 or older

• Women – Nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients are women

• Communities of color – Older Black Americans are about twice as likely and older Hispanic Americans about 1.5 times as likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to white Americans

These disparities reinforce the need for timely diagnosis, access to culturally competent care, and experienced legal support like that offered by The Lansky Law Firm.

The Essential Role of Caregivers

Dementia doesn’t only affect the person diagnosed—it affects everyone around them. Millions of caregivers, often family members, provide daily, unpaid support. These roles are often emotionally and physically exhausting.

To help address these challenges, many facilities now offer specialized memory care units with:

• Safe, secure environments

• Memory-enhancing programs

• Personalized care plans

• Assistance with daily living tasks, delivered with dignity

The Lansky Law Firm supports families in evaluating these options while ensuring that the legal and financial preparations are in place to make such care sustainable.

The Legal Side of Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Because Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are progressive, early legal planning is critical. It’s important to ensure that your loved one’s preferences are documented and that someone is legally authorized to act on their behalf when the time comes.

Key documents include:

• Powers of Attorney

• Healthcare Directives

• Living Wills

• Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts

At The Lansky Law Firm, we guide families through these complex decisions with compassion, experience, and a commitment to protecting dignity and preserving legacies.

Plan Ahead with The Lansky Law Firm

Receiving a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s brings many uncertainties—but it also presents an opportunity to plan proactively. With the right legal tools in place, you can ensure your loved one is cared for in the way they would want.

At The Lansky Law Firm, we are here to help you navigate the intersection of elder law, healthcare, and family dynamics with peace of mind and clarity.

Visit Us: 6800 Poplar Ave #225, Memphis, TN 38138

Call Us: (901) 767-7006

The Lansky Law Firm

Peace of Mind through Preparation.