Dementia vs Alzheimer’s: What Support Is Available in Wimbledon & Kingston
When someone starts showing signs of memory loss, there may be questions, “Is it dementia or Alzheimer's?" But what is the difference between the two conditions?
When someone we care about starts showing signs of memory loss, confusion, or changes in behaviour, there may be questions, for example, “Is it dementia?” Or “Could it be Alzheimer’s?” But, aren’t they the same thing? What is the difference?
It’s a common point of confusion, but it’s also an important distinction. Understanding the difference helps families navigate the journey more confidently—and access the right support early on.
Dementia is an umbrella. Alzheimer’s is one part of it.
Think of dementia as a general term. And Alzheimer’s? That’s much more specific.
Dementia describes a group of symptoms that affect memory, problem-solving, language, and sometimes mood or movement. It’s caused by diseases that damage the brain. Alzheimer’s is the most common of those diseases, responsible for about 60–70% of dementia cases.
Other types of dementia include vascular dementia (often after strokes), Lewy body dementia (which can involve hallucinations and movement changes), and frontotemporal dementia (which typically affects younger people and impacts personality and behaviour first).
So, if your loved one has dementia, Alzheimer’s may be the cause—but it might not be. Getting a clear diagnosis from your GP is the first step in getting the right help.
What dementia looks like, and why early support matters
Dementia isn’t just about memory loss. In its early stages, it might show up as:
- Struggling to find the right words
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Changes in mood or personality
- Difficulty managing daily tasks like cooking or finances
These subtle signs are often brushed off as “just ageing”. But the earlier we spot them, the earlier families can get the specialist dementia support they need.
That’s where Home Instead Wimbledon & Kingston can make a real difference—especially with access to in-house dementia expertise.
Meet Dr Burnie – Wimbledon & Kingston’s dementia specialist
At Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston, families have direct access to Dr Burnie, a former Kingston GP with deep roots in the local community and a specialism in dementia care.
For Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston, she offers:
- Post-diagnostic support for individuals and families
- One-to-one consultations to help families understand the diagnosis
- Guidance on care planning, medication, and day-to-day coping strategies
- Emotional support and a listening ear—because navigating dementia is as emotional as it is practical
Her approach is both clinical and compassionate. She’s someone who doesn’t just understand dementia on paper—she understands how it feels for families in real time.
If you’ve recently received a diagnosis or you’re simply worried about a loved one, a conversation with Dr Burnie can be a huge source of clarity and reassurance.
Local support for dementia and Alzheimer’s in Wimbledon & Kingston
We’re fortunate that both Wimbledon and Kingston have vibrant, growing dementia-friendly communities. Here are a few options available to families:
Dementia support groups and cafés
- Wimbledon Guild runs a memory café where people living with dementia and their carers can connect over activities and conversation.
- Kingston Carers’ Network offers practical support and events for carers supporting someone with dementia.
- Dementia Friendly Kingston is working hard to raise awareness and create inclusive community spaces.
Alzheimer’s-specific support
- The Alzheimer’s Society runs sessions at local venues across Merton and Kingston—including peer support groups and Singing for the Brain classes.
- You can also connect with a Dementia Support Worker through their local team, who’ll help you navigate everything from care planning to benefits.
And of course, Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston provides specialist home care designed around the needs of people living with Alzheimer’s or any form of dementia—whether it’s companionship visits or more complex support with daily living.
You’re not alone in this and there are qualified people at Home Instead Wimbledon and Kingston ready to help.
Need advice or want to discuss care options for you or your loved one?
Call us today or click on the button below.