Types of dementia

The word 'dementia' describes a set of symptoms that over time can affect memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Learn about the symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and factors that can put someone at risk of developing it. We also look at treatments and support currently available for the condition.

Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia (after Alzheimer's disease). Everyone experiences it differently. Symptoms vary depending on the person, the cause and the areas of the brain that are affected.

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a type of dementia caused by Lewy bodies, which are clumps of protein in the cells of the brain. Read more about what DLB is, and who gets the condition.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is one of the less common types of dementia. It is sometimes called Pick's disease or frontal lobe dementia. The first noticeable FTD symptoms are changes to personality and behaviour and/or difficulties with language.

Find out what young-onset dementia is, including the causes and symptoms, and how it is diagnosed and treated. 

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is caused by an abnormally shaped protein called a prion infecting the brain.

Find out about Alcohol-related 'dementia' including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, support and rehabilitation.

People with HIV and AIDS sometimes develop cognitive impairment, particularly in the later stages of their condition.

This page explains what mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is and tells you about some of the main symptoms.

Read our introduction to dementia in people with learning disabilities. This section includes details of why someone with a learning disability is more likely to develop dementia, and suggestions how they can live well with the condition. 

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, but there are many rarer diseases and conditions that can lead to dementia, dementia-like symptoms or mild cognitive impairment.