Lesser-known Types of Dementia – Part 1
Continuing my series on insights from my doctoral research, which focused on personalizing learning for care partners of people living with dementia, I’m highlighting lesser-known types of dementia that families and caregivers may not be aware of.
While many are familiar with Alzheimer’s disease or Lewy Body dementia, there are other causes of dementia that are just as life-altering and often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Here’s a high-level overview of five lesser-known causes of dementia to help care partners better understand the spectrum of needs they may encounter:
🔹 Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)–Related Dementia
Dementia from repeated or severe head injury (often seen in athletes or veterans) may emerge years after the trauma. It can lead to memory issues, mood swings, impaired judgment, and motor problems. The condition may be progressive, especially in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
🔹 HIV-Associated Dementia (HAD)
Though less common due to antiretroviral therapy, HIV can affect the brain, leading to cognitive, motor, and behavioral impairments. Early signs include apathy, forgetfulness, and slowed movement. The cognitive effects can sometimes improve with proper medical treatment.
🔹 Alcohol-Related Dementia / Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
Caused by long-term alcohol misuse and thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, this form of dementia impairs memory and coordination. Individuals may fabricate stories to fill memory gaps (confabulation). It’s sometimes partially reversible if caught early and treated with nutrition and abstinence.
🔹 Drug-Induced or Toxic Dementia
Long-term use or overdose of certain medications, such as sedatives, anticholinergics, or illicit drugs, can cause dementia-like symptoms. Withdrawal, medication review, and medical oversight are essential. In some cases, cognitive function can improve if the drug-related cause is addressed.
🔹 Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
Often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, NPH is caused by excess fluid in the brain. Symptoms include gait disturbance, urinary incontinence, and cognitive decline. Unlike other forms of dementia, it can sometimes be improved with surgical treatment (e.g., a shunt to drain fluid).
🧠 Why This Matters:
These diagnoses may not be as common, but for the individuals and families experiencing them, they are no less profound. Understanding the cause of cognitive changes is essential for caregivers to avoid inappropriate treatment or stigma, and to increase compassion and flexibility in how they interpret symptoms.
As with all forms of dementia, knowledge is power. And personalized learning, tailored to the specific diagnosis, is a critical tool for anyone navigating life as a caregiver.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not replace care from your clinician. If you have a medical concern, contact your healthcare professional. If this is an emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number).
