8 Early Warning Signs of Dementia

This is a guest blog written by Francine O’Neill who works with Memory Care Communities in several states in the USA

Every three seconds, someone in the world develops dementia. One in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Although dementia is common, it is not a normal part of aging. Getting older does not have to mean memory problems or difficulties communicating. Indeed, these issues may be early warning signs of Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia. Knowledge is power. An early diagnosis may mean more treatment options. It gives your family time to plan and gives you time to prepare for what’s next and choose care consistent with your values.

Here are eight early warning signs of dementia not to ignore.

Short-Term Memory Problems

It’s normal to forget minor details of things that happened years ago. Most forms of dementia attack short-term memory first, so short-term memory issues are more worrisome. In fact, many people with advanced-stage dementia can remember many details of their childhood, but almost nothing about what happened last week or yesterday. Telling the same story over and over, forgetting recent conversations, and struggling to keep up with daily tasks are all signs of short-term memory issues.

Frequently Losing Things

We all lose our keys from time to time. The dryer sometimes eats socks, and remembering a list at the grocery store is stressful even for many young and healthy people. But if you find yourself frequently forgetting or losing things such that it interferes with daily functioning, this could signal a deeper problem.

Getting Lost or Disoriented

Getting lost is stressful, no matter how old or how healthy you are. Sooner or later, everyone takes a wrong turn. But getting lost or feeling disoriented may be a sign of dementia if:

• You get lost going to a familiar place.
• Get confused doing a familiar task.
• Forget where you are going.
• Get lost much more than you once did.
• Struggling to follow simple directions.

Not Remembering How To Do Basic Tasks

Everyone has a few tasks that are so integrated into their daily lives they can do them without much thought. For experienced gardeners, those tasks might include watering the plants or pruning the bushes. For cooks, they might include following a familiar recipe. And for most people, basic grooming tasks are familiar or easy. If you begin to struggle with tasks that were once familiar and easy — such as applying makeup, following a recipe, tending your garden, or getting dressed — it could be an early sign of dementia.

Changes in Mood or Personality

Although most people think of dementia as a memory issue, dementia is a complex group of brain disorders that can affect many aspects of functioning. Several forms of dementia change mood or personality. People with frontotemporal dementia often show signs of depression or behavior problems well before they develop memory loss. Depression and mental health issues are not a normal part of aging. They always warrant a trip to the doctor.

Increased Apathy

Some people mistakenly believe that as people grow older, they grow apathetic. But there’s nothing about the aging process that inevitably makes people apathetic. Most seniors continue to enjoy a wide range of interests and passions. Sudden apathy, especially toward loved ones or once-beloved activities, may be an early signal of dementia.

Language Difficulties

Memory issues can lead to language problems. You might notice that you have trouble remembering the names of family members, or that expressing yourself has become more difficult. Everyone struggles to find a word here or there, but if language difficulties are increasingly a source of stress, this could be a sign of a serious problem.

Concerned Family Members

If you have symptoms that no one else seems to notice, it’s probably normal aging. But if your loved ones are concerned, even if you feel fine, consider heeding their advice and seeking help. Dementia can undermine your judgment, making it more difficult to notice signs of cognitive decline.

A supportive environment can alleviate the challenges of caregiving, help people with dementia feel less anxious, and ensure a high quality of life. Memory care communities such as The Arbor at Bridge Mill offer exceptional care and safety, as well as a continuing roster of activities ideal for people with dementia.

Author Bio:

With over 30 years of experience, Francine O’Neill serves as a clinical resource for resident care directors at The Arbor Company. She oversees ongoing quality improvement programs and regulatory compliance, assisting with identifying and implementing programs that enhance care delivery and service to Arbor’s residents.