Is it dementia? The early warning signs

Your senior loved one may brush off their memory lapses and occasional confusion as “old-timer’s disease,” or “a senior moment.” However, chronic difficulties with memory, planning and completing the tasks of daily living and issues that worsen over time may be early signs of dementia.

While anyone can have minor memory issues or lose some mental acuity in later years, dementia is not a natural part of aging. If you suspect your loved one is having problems that could indicate dementia, even in its early stages, it’s time to consult with their doctor for an assessment.

Changes often occur so gradually that family has adjusted over time and hasn’t noticed a decline in function. The senior may have been able to compensate well enough to disguise issues. Or the family may be reluctant to see and admit that their loved one is having trouble that may require ongoing care.

It can take a skilled eye to detect minor confusion that goes beyond normal aging issues.

Common early warning signs of dementia:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life – If memory issues become a matter of health or safety, it can be time to intervene.
• Difficulty recognizing or naming familiar loved ones.
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks – Seniors with early dementia may be confused about the sequence of an everyday process or even the function of the tools and objects needed to complete a task.
• Confusion with time or place – Confusion may come across as anger or irritation.
• Increased difficulty in planning or problem solving – Problem-solving may become more difficult because of memory loss, because of an inability to make decisions or even being unable to define the desired outcome.
• Decreased or poor judgment – This can range from wearing clothes that aren’t seasonally appropriate to driving under hazardous conditions, trusting people who shouldn’t be trusted or even stealing or other illegal activity.
• Withdrawal from friends and social activities – Your senior loved one may become frustrated trying to navigate social activities and manage relationships that require active communications. Talk to them about why they have changed their habits.
• Changes in mood and personality – When a usually cheerful parent becomes hostile, or Someone “prim and proper” starts using profanity or acting out in ways inappropriate for the setting, it can all be a red flag for early dementia.

Dementia Home Care

Belvedere Home Care can do an in-home assessment with your loved one to determine a level of care that is appropriate for their health and daily living needs. We are experts in working with families and seniors who are dealing with dementia. We can help keep loved ones comfortable and safe in the familiar surroundings of their own home as long as possible.

One of the benefits of using Belvedere Home Care is that clients who are confused as a result of Alzheimer’s disease or other conditions can stay in a comfortable, familiar environment and keep their own habits and schedule. Our caregivers can provide round-the-clock supervision and care to prevent vulnerable clients from wandering or getting injured in the home.

We offer seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke and brain injury a full range of assistance and services.
Contact us today to learn more about our customized care programs and to schedule your assessment. Call (518) 694-9400 Option 4 or email info@belvedereservices.com.