Dementia Explained for Grand Rapids, Michigan

Dementia is a general term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. It is caused by a number of conditions that damage brain cells over time.

In Grand Rapids and across Michigan, dementia is an important public health issue as our population ages. Local health systems such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health all provide assessment and support for people living with dementia and their families.

Dementia Is Not One Specific Disease

The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are many other types and causes.

Dementia leads to a progressive decline in a person’s ability to:

  • Remember recent events or conversations
  • Think clearly and make decisions
  • Manage everyday activities like cooking, driving, or paying bills
  • Regulate mood and behavior

In Michigan, tens of thousands of residents are currently living with dementia, and that number is expected to rise significantly as the population ages. West Michigan, including the Grand Rapids metro area, will see more families affected as baby boomers grow older.

While the risk of dementia increases with age, most older adults do not develop dementia.

Dementia Is Not a Normal Part of Aging

Dementia can affect anyone, but it is more common after age 65. When symptoms begin between the ages of 40 and 60, it is often called younger-onset dementia (or early-onset dementia).

Normal aging may bring some slower recall or “senior moments,” but:

  • Misplacing keys occasionally is common
  • Forgetting how to use familiar objects or getting lost on well-known routes is not normal aging

If you or a loved one in Grand Rapids notices changes that interfere with daily life, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.

Early Symptoms of Dementia

The early signs of dementia can be subtle and easy to overlook. They may come and go, especially in the beginning.

Common early symptoms include:

  • Difficulty performing everyday tasks (managing medications, handling finances, following recipes)
  • Frequent memory loss, especially of recent events or conversations
  • Confusion about time or place (getting lost in familiar areas of Grand Rapids or forgetting the day or month)
  • Personality or behavior changes (increased irritability, suspiciousness, or withdrawal)
  • Apathy and loss of interest in hobbies, social activities, or community events
  • Trouble finding words or following conversations

Because winters in West Michigan are long and dark, it can be easy to mistake early dementia symptoms for seasonal depression or “winter blues.” If symptoms persist or worsen, a medical evaluation is important.

Types of Dementia

There are many different types of dementia. The most common include:

Alzheimer’s Disease

  • The most common form of dementia, accounting for 50–70% of cases
  • Typically begins with memory problems, then gradually affects language, reasoning, and behavior

Vascular Dementia

  • Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke or a series of small strokes
  • More common in people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or heart disease
  • Symptoms may include slowed thinking, difficulty planning, and problems with balance or walking

Given Michigan’s high rates of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, vascular dementia is an important concern in the Grand Rapids area.

Lewy Body Dementia

  • Caused by abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) in the brain
  • Symptoms can overlap with Parkinson’s disease, including stiffness, tremor, and slowed movement
  • People may experience visual hallucinations, fluctuating alertness, and sleep disturbances

Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)

  • A group of dementias caused by degeneration in the frontal or temporal lobes of the brain
  • Often develops in people under age 65
  • Early symptoms may be changes in personality, behavior, judgment, or language rather than memory
  • Linked to long-term excessive alcohol use, especially when combined with a poor diet low in vitamin B1 (thiamine)
  • Symptoms can sometimes improve with sobriety and proper nutrition, but damage may be permanent if drinking continues

Huntington’s Disease–Related Dementia

  • Huntington’s disease is an inherited degenerative brain disorder
  • Most people with Huntington’s eventually develop dementia along with movement and mood changes

HIV-Associated Dementia

  • A rare form of dementia seen in some people with advanced HIV infection
  • With modern HIV treatments, this form of dementia is now uncommon, but early diagnosis and care are still important

Why an Early Medical Diagnosis Matters

A thorough medical evaluation is essential when dementia-like symptoms first appear. Many conditions can mimic dementia and may be treatable, including:

  • Depression and severe anxiety
  • Medication side effects
  • Thyroid problems
  • Vitamin B12 or other vitamin deficiencies
  • Infections (such as urinary tract infections, which are common in older adults)
  • Sleep disorders

Treating these conditions can often reverse or improve symptoms.

Benefits of Getting Diagnosed Early

An early diagnosis can:

  • Confirm or rule out dementia and identify the specific type
  • Rule out other conditions that may look like dementia
  • Allow you and your family to plan ahead while the person can still participate in decisions
  • Enable access to support services in Grand Rapids and Kent County
  • Help manage symptoms earlier with medications, lifestyle changes, and safety planning

Where to Get Evaluated in Grand Rapids

Start with:

  • Your primary care provider or family doctor
  • A geriatrician, neurologist, or memory clinic at:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health)
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health facilities in West Michigan

The Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health can also provide information on local memory clinics, senior services, and community resources.

If you feel your concerns are not being taken seriously, consider:

  • Seeking a second opinion from another provider or health system
  • Contacting national organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association for guidance and referrals

Is Dementia Inherited?

For most people, dementia is not directly inherited.

  • Many genes may slightly increase or decrease risk, but most dementia is not caused by a single gene change.
  • Familial Alzheimer’s disease, which has a clear pattern of inheritance, is very rare. Symptoms usually appear between ages 30 and 60.
  • Some genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome and certain familial forms of frontotemporal dementia, do increase dementia risk.

Because the role of genes depends on the type of dementia, a clear medical diagnosis is important.

If you are in the Grand Rapids area and concerned about your family risk:

  • Discuss it with your primary care provider or a neurologist
  • Ask whether genetic counseling is appropriate for your situation

Treatment: No Cure Yet, But Many Ways to Help

Currently, there is no cure for most forms of dementia. However, there are many ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Medications for Cognitive Symptoms

Some medications can help with memory and thinking in certain types of dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease, and sometimes vascular dementia or Lewy body dementia:

  • Cholinesterase inhibitors

    • Increase levels of acetylcholine, a brain chemical important for memory
    • Can help some people with memory, thinking, and daily functioning

  • Memantine

    • Affects glutamate, another brain chemical involved in learning and memory
    • May improve or stabilize thinking and daily function in some people

All medications have potential side effects and can interact with other drugs. Many older adults in Grand Rapids take multiple medications for heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis, so it’s important to:

  • Review all medications with your doctor or pharmacist
  • Report new symptoms (confusion, falls, dizziness, or sleep changes) promptly

Managing Mood, Anxiety, and Sleep

Many people with dementia experience depression, anxiety, or sleep problems:

  • Depression can worsen memory and thinking. Antidepressant medication, counseling, and social support can help.
  • Anxiety and panic attacks may respond to reassurance, a calmer environment, and routine. Strong anti-anxiety drugs and antipsychotics can have serious side effects in dementia and are usually a last resort.
  • Sleep problems, including nighttime waking and wandering, are common. Before using sleep medications, speak with a doctor, as some drugs can increase confusion or falls.

Non-drug strategies are often helpful in West Michigan’s climate:

  • Maintain a regular daily routine
  • Get daytime light exposure, especially in winter, to support healthy sleep-wake cycles
  • Encourage safe physical activity, such as short walks in local parks when weather allows

Planning Ahead and Finding Support in Grand Rapids

The earlier help is found, the better the person and their family can cope and plan.

While the person can still make decisions and sign documents, it is important to:

  • Establish durable powers of attorney for:
    • Finances
    • Healthcare decisions
  • Discuss advance care planning, including preferences for future medical care and living arrangements
  • Review wills, insurance, and long-term care options

Local elder-law attorneys in Grand Rapids can help families navigate Michigan-specific legal documents and protections.

Getting Information and Education

Understanding dementia can reduce fear and increase a sense of control. Consider:

  • Educational materials from the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter
  • Classes or workshops offered through:
    • Local health systems (Corewell Health, Trinity Health, Metro Health)
    • Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
    • Senior centers and community organizations in Grand Rapids

Support for Families and Caregivers

Caring for someone with dementia can be demanding, especially during icy winters and extreme weather when getting out is harder. Support options include:

  • Caregiver support groups (in-person and virtual)
  • Telephone and online support programs
  • Counseling for individuals or families
  • Respite care to give caregivers a break:
    • In-home respite
    • Adult day centers
    • Short-term stays in local care facilities

In the Grand Rapids area, look for services through:

  • Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
  • Kent County Health Department
  • Local senior centers and faith-based organizations
  • Hospital-based social work and care management teams

Community and Home-Based Services

A wide range of services can help people with dementia remain at home safely for as long as possible:

  • Home care (personal care, housekeeping, meal support)
  • Adult day programs and memory cafés
  • Transportation assistance to medical appointments
  • Assisted living and memory care facilities when more support is needed

Because Michigan winters can increase fall risk and isolation, home safety evaluations and planning for transportation and backup support are especially important in Grand Rapids.

Key Points About Dementia in Grand Rapids, MI

  • Dementia describes symptoms caused by illnesses that affect the brain.
  • The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Dementia can affect anyone, but it is more common after age 65.
  • It is not a normal part of aging.
  • Early symptoms can be subtle, including:
    • Difficulty performing everyday tasks
    • Frequent memory loss
    • Confusion
    • Personality and behavior changes
    • Apathy and withdrawal
  • Early medical evaluation is essential to:
    • Rule out treatable conditions
    • Get an accurate diagnosis
    • Plan ahead and access support
  • There is no cure yet, but medications, lifestyle changes, and strong community support can greatly improve quality of life.
  • Grand Rapids residents can access help through local health systems, the Kent County Health Department, Grand Rapids Public Health, the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, and national organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association.

If you are concerned about memory loss or behavior changes in yourself or a loved one in the Grand Rapids area, talk with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early action can make a meaningful difference for everyone involved.