The warning signs of dementia can be subtle at first, especially if your parent lives on the other side of the country. By the time the signs become obvious, your parent may have moderate to advanced dementia and need extensive care. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you encourage your parent to get a proper diagnosis, begin planning for the future, and implement lifestyle changes that keep your parent safe while making their life easier.
About 40 percent of people over 65 experience some memory loss. Brain cells die with age, and chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure can exacerbate this phenomenon.
Loss of independence or the ability to function or think clearly, however, is not a normal part of aging. A senior who begins making poor decisions, consistently struggles with memory loss, or develops personality changes or new mental health symptoms is not experiencing normal aging.
Any change in a loved one’s ability to think or make decisions warrants a conversation and a trip to the doctor. Some of the most common warning signs of Alzheimer’s include:
Many people see Alzheimer’s and dementia as synonymous, but Alzheimer’s is just one manifestation of dementia. Symptoms of other types of dementia can include:
Memory loss isn’t the only sign of dementia. Some forms of dementia, such as frontotemporal dementia, are characterized by changes in mood and personality. No matter which type of dementia a senior has, their personality may change. Cognitive difficulties can make seniors more reserved and anxious. As dementia progresses and damages the brain, it can affect the parts of the brain that play a role in personality. For some seniors, this is the first sign of dementia.
No one wants to believe that their loved one has dementia, and because no single test can conclusively diagnose all forms of dementia, it can be difficult to get an accurate diagnosis. Thus, many people believe that their loved one might be faking. A number of unique dementia features can compound this belief. Those include:
Some medical conditions may mimic symptoms of dementia. This is why it’s so important to see a doctor and get an accurate diagnosis. Some conditions that may be confused with dementia include:
Dementia does not mean the end of an active, fulfilling life. Dementia is a progressive disease, so many seniors are able to live independently for months or years following a diagnosis. Others need more immediate help. Providing your loved one with a supportive, safe environment that is not excessively restrictive is key to helping them remain happy and healthy. The right senior living community can support your loved one and help them continue using their natural gifts.
Some other strategies to help your loved one include:
If you need help supporting a loved one with dementia, check out our Caregiver’s Complete Guide to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care.