At Dolan Memory Care, we are committed to helping families better understand the conditions that affect their loved ones. Among the many types of dementia we specialize in, Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) stands out for its complexity and the unique challenges it presents.
While much is still being studied about LBD, researchers have identified clear biological changes in the brain that are believed to be at the root of the disease. Understanding these causes is a critical step in recognizing symptoms early, supporting care partners, and developing compassionate, effective care strategies.
The Underlying Cause: Abnormal Protein Deposits
The primary cause of Lewy Body Dementia is the abnormal accumulation of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain. In healthy individuals, alpha-synuclein plays a role in how brain cells communicate. In LBD, this protein begins to misfold and clump together, forming what are known as Lewy bodies.
These Lewy bodies disrupt the normal functioning of neurons, impairing communication between brain cells and leading to progressive damage. Over time, this damage impacts areas of the brain responsible for thinking, memory, movement, sleep, and mood regulation.
Where Lewy Bodies Form Matters
Lewy bodies don’t form randomly. In LBD, they are typically found in:
- The cerebral cortex, which affects cognition and memory
- The limbic system, responsible for emotion and behavior
- The brainstem, which influences movement and automatic bodily functions
- The midbrain, which controls alertness and visual processing
The placement of these protein deposits helps explain why individuals with LBD often experience such a wide range of symptoms—from hallucinations and confusion to stiffness, tremors, and sleep disturbances.
Why Do Lewy Bodies Form?
The exact reason alpha-synuclein misfolds in some people and not others is still unknown. However, researchers believe several factors may influence the development of Lewy Body Dementia:
- Age: Risk increases significantly after age 60.
- Genetics: Most cases are not inherited, but rare genetic mutations may contribute in some families.
- Environmental exposure: Ongoing studies are investigating links to certain chemicals, toxins, or traumatic brain injuries.
- Underlying biology: Some individuals may have predispositions in how their brains produce or clear proteins like alpha-synuclein.
A Distinct Disease, Often Misunderstood
LBD shares features with both Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, which can make diagnosis difficult. In fact, some researchers consider LBD, Parkinson’s disease dementia, and Alzheimer’s as points on a spectrum of neurodegenerative disorders that may share overlapping biological processes.
Despite these overlaps, LBD has distinct features and requires its own specialized approach to care—something we prioritize in every Dolan Memory Care home.
How Dolan Memory Care Supports Those with LBD
Because Lewy Body Dementia impacts so many areas of the brain, individuals require care that is highly individualized and consistently adapted to meet their needs. At Dolan, we provide:
- Calm, secure environments that reduce confusion and overstimulation
- Staff trained to recognize and manage LBD’s unique symptom patterns
- Daily routines that support structure and comfort
- Ongoing collaboration with families and medical professionals
To learn more about our approach to Lewy Body Dementia, visit:
https://dolancare.com/lewy-body-dementia/
Support Beyond the Diagnosis
We know that care partners need support too. Dolan hosts a monthly in-person support group for LBD care partners, offering a space to share experiences, gain knowledge, and find community.
Support Group Details
Location: Dolan Memory Care Clubhouse
11300 Dolan Way, St. Louis, MO 63146
When: First Wednesday of every month at 6:30 PM
Contact: Cliff Pollack at acliffpollack@gmail.com or 314-496-2404
At Dolan Memory Care, we believe that better understanding leads to better care. By focusing on the root causes of Lewy Body Dementia, we empower families and equip our team to provide meaningful, dignified support at every stage of the journey.
