Central Texas Neurological Association - Waco

05/29/2026

Dementia isn’t one-size-fits-all and neither are its symptoms.

Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies are among the most common types – and each affects the brain in different ways.

From memory loss and confusion to changes in behaviour, language or movement, the symptoms can vary widely depending on the type of dementia.

This guide highlights some of the common symptoms linked to each illness, but it’s also important to remember that no two people experience dementia in the same way.

By recognising the different signs, including these lesser-known symptoms, we can spot changes earlier and help more people access an early diagnosis.

[Image description:
A graphic split into four different sections illustrates common symptoms associated with Vascular dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Dementia with Lewy bodies and Frontotemporal dementia. From top left to bottom right:
Central text reads, 'Alzheimer's disease.' This is surrounded by text reading, 'Difficulties with thinking and reasoning; Language problems; Memory problems; Changes to how you see and hear things; Getting lost in a familiar place; Mood changes.' Each piece of text is accompanied by a graphic illustrating the symptom.
Central text reads, 'Vascular dementia.' This is surrounded by text reading, 'Problems planning and organising; Short periods of sudden confusion; Slower speed of thought; Problems concentrating; Trouble following a series of steps; Problems with memory and language.' Each piece of text is accompanied by a graphic illustrating the symptom.
Central text reads, 'Dementia with Lewy bodies.' This is surrounded by text reading, 'Tremors; Depression and anxiety; Hallucinations; Swinging between alertness and sleepiness; Trouble concentrating; Difficulties with walking and movement.' Each piece of text is accompanied by a graphic illustrating the symptom.
Central text reads, 'Frontotemporal dementia.' This is surrounded by text reading, 'Socially inappropriate behaviour; Personality changes; Problems with language; Eating or drinking excessively; Repetitive or obsessive behaviour; Trouble planning and organising.' Each piece of text is accompanied by a graphic illustrating the symptom.]

05/27/2026

As dementia progresses, many care partners notice something surprising at mealtime:

Their loved one may stop using utensils.

This is not always stubbornness or refusal to eat. Often, the brain is changing.

The ability to coordinate a fork or spoon requires multiple parts of the brain to work together at once. Vision, depth perception, motor planning, sequencing, attention, and swallowing all have to synchronize. As dementia progresses, those pathways can become more difficult.

This is why finger foods can become so important.

Small, colorful, easy-to-grab foods may help reduce frustration and increase independence. Foods cut into bite-sized portions can feel safer, simpler, and less overwhelming to the brain.

You may notice your loved one eating better when meals become:
❤️ Easier to see
❤️ Easier to hold
❤️ Easier to recognize
❤️ Easier to chew
❤️ Easier to process

Even something as simple as using a red plate instead of a white plate can help improve visual contrast and help the brain better identify the food.

And here is something important to remember:

If your loved one is struggling with utensils, it does not mean they are failing.

It means the brain is asking us to adapt the environment to meet them where they are.

That is not giving up.
That is compassionate dementia care.

Sometimes dignity looks like independence at a table with finger foods, a calm environment, and someone sitting beside them with patience instead of pressure.

The goal is no longer a “perfect meal.”
The goal is nourishment, comfort, safety, and connection. ❤️

caregiversu

05/27/2026

Signs your brain may need a vacation:

A. Walked into a room and forgot why
B. Forgot someone’s name immediately after hearing it
C. Opened the fridge 14 times today
D. Started a sentence and lost your train of thought halfway through

Your brain works hard every day — don’t forget to take care of it. 🧠💙

Which one are you guilty of?

Send a message to learn more

05/26/2026

🧠 Thought of the day
Neurology fact: The brain doesn’t feel pain… but it definitely causes headaches.

05/25/2026

05/13/2026

‘What is dementia?’ Let’s break it down 👇

Dementia is a group of symptoms that show your brain isn’t working as it should.

Early symptoms are often mild, and might include little things like misplacing your belongings, struggling to find the right word for everyday objects, or finding day-to-day activities difficult.

Many of us will notice changes to thinking abilities and memory as we get older. However with dementia, these symptoms get worse over time.

And when symptoms start to interfere with daily life, this is known as dementia.

It’s really important to remember that dementia is caused by diseases that damage your brain – it’s not a normal part of getting older.

So if you’re worried about yourself or someone else, speak to your GP, or give our Dementia Support Line a call on 0333 150 3456 for more support and advice.

And please share this post so we can raise awareness of dementia and educate as many people as possible about this devastating condition.

05/05/2026

Happy Cinco De Mayo! 🪇🪇🪇

04/24/2026

❤️ Heart Attack Symptoms: Men vs. Women ❤️
Knowing the signs can save a life—maybe even your own.

Common Symptoms (Men):
• Chest pain or pressure
• Pain in left arm or shoulder
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Nausea or lightheadedness

Common Symptoms (Women):
• Chest discomfort (may be less intense)
• Unusual fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain in back, neck, jaw, or stomach

🚨 Don’t ignore the signs. Symptoms can look different for everyone.
📞 Call 911 immediately if you think you’re having a heart attack.

Schedule your appointment with Waco Heart and Vascular!♥️
254.225.WELL(9355)
wacohv.com

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📍

04/15/2026

Health is more than the absence of illness — it’s access to care, support, understanding and hope. On World Health Day and every day, we stand with the MS community and reaffirm our commitment to curing MS while empowering people affected by it to live their best lives.

Together, we can build a world free of MS.

Image courtesy of ETH Zurich