If you have a loved one you are concerned about, it is important to have knowledge of these ten warning signs of dementia in order to get an early diagnosis. If your loved one is demonstrating any of the following signs, it is best to visit your health provider for a comprehensive evaluation. Here is what you need to look out for.
Constant Memory Loss
They frequently forget things or have difficulty recalling or retaining new information for prolonged periods of time.
Problems Expressing Themselves
They forget the right words (even basic terms) or replace words and phrases that do not belong in a conversation, which may come off as gibberish.
Struggling with Familiar Tasks
They are unable to complete basic tasks and familiar routines like getting dressed, meal preparation, or playing a game, which have become foreign to them.
Inaccurate Judgement
They do not recognize health and safety risks and experience lapses in proper judgment and decision-making. For example, they may feel no need to seek help for a pressing medical issue.
Disinterest
They lose interest in their favorite pastimes and time spent with family and friends. They may come off as disinterested and passive, taking no initiative and requiring prompts in order to get involved.
Disorientation
They cannot remember what day of the week it is or they get lost in familiar environments. They can even get lost and disoriented in their own neighborhood, unsure of how they got there or how to return home.
Misplacing Items
They are placing items where they should not be. They do not just temporarily misplace personal items; they may put items in strange or inappropriate places, like a book in the refrigerator or a ladle in the laundry basket, for instance.
Difficulty with Complex Thinking
They struggle to grasp and understand what numbers and symbols mean. Complex thinking while doing calculations or filing taxes takes time, but they may have difficulties with these activities due to a lack of comprehension of what numbers are and how they are utilized.
Behavioral and Mood Changes
They exhibit severe varied mood swings or changes – from anger to sadness to happiness – without any given reason or trigger.
Personality Changes
They are behaving in a way that is unlike their usual self or character. They may experience drastic and distinctive personality changes and may often be confused, reclusive, or distrustful of the environment and people around them. Changes may also include a loss of interest or constant fear.
Embark on Memory Care with TerraBella Lake Norman
Here at TerraBella Lake Norman, our memory care program provides quality person-centered care and support for individuals dealing with memory-related conditions like Alzheimer’s. We strive for all residents to lead fulfilling, enriching, and comfortable lifestyles that propel them towards personal growth and accomplishment. If you would like to find out more about our programs, contact us today.
