Dementia is a popular term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving, or other categories of thinking abilities that are important for daily living. Alzheimer’s disease is responsible for 60-80% of cases of dementia. The second most common cause is vascular dementia which is caused by blood vessel blockage or microscopic bleeding within the brain. Thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies are also part of the causes of dementia.
According to current estimates, about 5.8 million people in the USA suffer from this condition. So if you have a loved one suffering from this condition, you are not alone. You shouldn’t be scared. Also, there are now several memory care facilities, like Bader House of Georgetown Memory Care, where you can enroll them. There, they can get the best care.
Meanwhile, here are some warning signs of dementia.
Warning Signs Of Dementia
Memory Loss
One of the major signs associated with dementia is memory loss. An individual with dementia easily forgets things. They may even forget what basic things like keys are used for.
Difficulty in Carrying Out Routine Tasks
As dementia sets in, performing some basic tasks may become difficult. For instance, an older adult with dementia could have trouble cooking or performing other activities they usually do on their own.
Disorientation
In extreme cases of dementia, the affected person may find it challenging to find their way to a home they’ve lived in for years. Additionally, they may think they’re in the early days of their life sometimes.
Language Problems
We all have trouble figuring out the right word to use sometimes, but it’s more common among dementia patients. When they forget simple words, they use inaccurate replacements, which eventually makes it difficult to understand them. They may also have difficulty understanding what other people are saying.
Changes In Abstract Thinking
Another major sign of dementia changes is abstract thinking. A person dealing with dementia could have trouble recognizing numbers or how to use them. As a result, it makes it hard for them to manage finances. Moreso, this state of thinking makes them prone to fraud.
Poor Judgement
A person with dementia may also find it difficult to make good decisions. For instance, they could decide to wear an outfit with soft material during cold weather.
Poor Spatial Skills
With dementia, an older adult may find it difficult to judge distances well when driving. This disability makes them prone to accidents that could otherwise be avoided.
Mood Changes
Dementia patients have a high risk of frequent mood swings without any discernible cause. They can also be paranoid or go out more often than usual. Their level of participation in social activities could also reduce.
Conditions With Symptoms Similar To Dementia
As much as it’s important to know the symptoms of dementia, you also need to be aware that there are some symptoms of other medical conditions similar to those of dementia. Some of these include depression, stroke, hormonal disorders, brain tumors, or nutritional deficiencies.
What To Do When an Elderly Loved One Exhibits Symptoms Of Dementia
Get A Proper Diagnosis
The right step to take when your loved one is exhibiting symptoms of dementia is to talk to their doctor or a Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service (CDAMS) clinic to get a diagnosis. A proper diagnosis of dementia in its early stage is essential to prevent life-threatening conditions. It’ll also help to know whether your loved one is experiencing Alzheimer’s disease or other categories of dementia.
Pay More Attention
Even if you’ve not had to visit the doctor yet, or the diagnosis results aren’t out yet, you need to pay attention to your loved one. If possible, try to get someone to always stay around them until their test results are out. Since a person with dementia has difficulty performing daily activities, you can’t afford to leave them alone.
Make Research On Memory Care Facilities
Once the test results are available and it turns out your loved one is battling dementia, the next step to take is making research the best memory care facilities near you. With a good memory care facility, you can rest assured that your loved ones will get the support they need to live normal lives, despite their medical condition. Regardless of where you live, you can get access to a good memory care facility.
In conclusion, knowing the warning signs of dementia and the ideal steps to take against them are part of the keys to preventing dementia from causing severe damage. Don’t wait till your loved ones hurt themselves unintentionally before you do the right thing.