Warning Signs of Dementia
Dementia is a condition that affects your brain and causes problems with thinking, memory, and behavior. While there are many different types of dementia, they all have some common warning signs.
Let’s dive into some common warning signs of dementia so you can better understand how to identify it in yourself or someone else.
Dangerous Memory Loss
A common warning sign of dementia is trouble with memory.
If you notice that a person begins to forget things like the names of people or their own address and phone number, this might indicate some form of cognitive impairment.
In addition, if they struggle to remember recent conversations or other details from just moments before, it’s possible that there are bigger problems at hand than simple forgetfulness.
Serious Communication Problems
One way to check for signs of dementia is by observing how your loved one communicates.
For example, if an elderly family member has always been talkative but suddenly becomes quiet and reserved when receiving guests in the home after suffering a stroke, this may be an indicator of cognitive impairment.
If your loved one has become more irritable and easily frustrated by asking questions, it might be a cause for alarm because these behaviors indicate that they’re struggling to comprehend the world around them.
Becoming Confused or Lost Easily
Dementia can affect short-term memory and long-term memory in many ways, but there are some warning signs of dementia that you should look out for if you think someone is living with this condition.
For example, if an elderly person who used to travel all over the city suddenly starts getting lost when trying to find their way home from familiar places like work or church, this could signal serious problems in the mind.
If they struggle to recognize family members during conversations or become disoriented in familiar surroundings, these are all big red flags that dementia might be developing.
Inability to Handle Daily Tasks
As dementia progresses, it can gradually take away a person’s ability to live independently.
This often starts with small things like forgetting how to cook meals or doing laundry. As the condition worsens, they may struggle with even more basic tasks such as getting dressed and using the bathroom.
If you see that your loved one is having trouble completing normal everyday activities, this could be an indication that they need help managing their dementia symptoms and even getting help from a family member or caregiver.
Challenges in Solving Simple Everyday Problems
If you notice that your loved one has become unable to solve even the simplest everyday problems, this could be a sign of cognitive impairment.
For example, if they struggle with managing finances and paying bills on time or require help finding their car in a large parking lot, these are all signs that dementia may be taking over.
Inability to Recognize Friends and Family
When it comes down to it, one of the top warning signs of dementia is simply not recognizing friends and family members anymore.
This can happen as early as five years after diagnosis for some patients while others may retain the ability to recognize those closest throughout later stages of development.
Considering Dementia Care?
If you are noticing any of these signs, it's important to speak to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. If the condition is confirmed, it would be best to enroll your loved one in a Vancouver memory care program.
At Magnolia Gardens, our primary focus is what is best for your loved one. Whether that is our home, or helping you find another Vancouver assisted living home, we are here to walk you through the process of placing your loved one in the right home for them.