Dementia is unfortunately an all too common health problem. Worldwide, more than 55 million people are living with dementia, and more than 60% of them reside in low- and middle-income nations.
While the link between dementia and aging is valid, dementia is not an inevitable part of aging. Roughly half of all people with dementia are under the age of 65.
It is a condition that affects the brain’s ability to process information and form memories. It can eventually lead to death. But the earlier that you seek treatment, the better the prognosis.
Have you noticed dementia symptoms in someone, or perhaps you’ve been experiencing it yourself? Sometimes, it can be hard to diagnose, because the symptoms overlap with other conditions in old age.
Luckily, there are eight dementia symptoms to look out for. With these tips, you’ll be able to spot dementia in your loved one with ease.
1. Memory Loss
Memory loss is a very common symptom of dementia and is one of the primary signs of this condition. It may include difficulty recalling names, conversations, or events. It can cause confusion and distress for those who suffer from it.
Fortunately, there are treatments available to help patients cope with memory loss. These range from medication and cognitive training to lifestyle changes and counseling.
2. Difficulty With Problem Solving and Planning
Often, the brain is not able to access the mental tools necessary to problem-solve and plan. Individuals may be stuck in one thought pattern and can become overwhelmed by the cognitive load of problem-solving. This symptom can also appear as an inability to remember instructions or complete complex tasks.
As dementia progresses, it can become difficult to break through that cognitive wall and find the solutions to problems.
Caregivers can help by breaking tasks into smaller, achievable steps. Reinforcing positive behaviors can also help empower individuals to develop problem-solving skills.
3. Language and Communication Problems
As the illness develops, the language skills of a person may start to decline. They may start speaking in incomplete sentences and find it difficult to put their thoughts into words. Also, they might find it difficult to recall certain words or search for them which can lead to frustration.
Personality changes may make it more difficult to communicate their needs, leading to frustration. It’s important to be patient and understanding and listen during conversations.
In some cases, it may help to write things down or use body language to aid communication. With practice, patience, and understanding, communication and language problems can be managed.
4. Difficulty With Routine Tasks
Routine tasks can become difficult for a person with dementia. The person may forget how to do tasks they used to do often and daily. This is due to the decreasing ability of their brain to work properly and can lead to frustration and confusion in a person with dementia.
Interventions such as finding a topic of conversation to remind them of what they need to do can help them to maintain some control. For those with more advanced dementia, a caregiver or family member can take over routine tasks.
5. Social Withdrawal
Social withdrawal can start with small things like avoiding a party invite or turning down offers to go out. Progress to the individual, such as elderly parents only wanting to stay in their own home and not interacting with family and friends.
This can be upsetting to those that are close to them and can lead to feelings of guilt or even blame. It is important to keep in mind that social withdrawal is often a symptom of dementia rather than an unwillingness to connect with others.
Keep frequent contact with the individual to let them know they are supported and loved. Showing patience and understanding can help reduce the feeling of isolation. Also, allow them to feel comfortable enough to interact and be involved in activities.
6. Drastic Changes in Mood and Personality
Drastic changes in mood and personality are one of the common dementia signs. People with dementia can become emotional or aggressive.
Moods may swing from tearful and hyper-sensitive to overly suspicious and paranoid. Family members may recognize dementia with unprovoked outbursts of anger or by the lack of emotion in their voice or facial expression.
Living with a loved one like aging parents, who is experiencing sudden changes in mood and personality, can be very difficult and stressful. It is important to try and remain understanding and patient.
If anyone in your family can’t handle it, provide the necessary emotional support and find an adult family home that accommodates their unique needs. With the appropriate help and support, you can be there for your loved one, both in good times and bad.
7. Sleep Disturbances
People with dementia often experience fragmented and disturbed sleep. They may have difficulty sleeping or staying asleep for long periods throughout the night.
Dementia patients are also prone to sleep during the day and become very active at night. This decrease in daytime alertness and increase in nighttime activity is often referred to as sundowning.
To cope with sleep disturbances, ensure that patients follow a sleep schedule and practice good sleep habits. Also, try to keep the patient away from bright lights, loud noises, and potential distractions.
8. The Decline in Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene is one of the most important aspects of maintaining good health and well-being. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the first things to suffer in those who have dementia.
This decline in personal hygiene can be caused by problems with memory and a lack of understanding of what cleanliness entails. Also, this can be difficult for caregivers to manage, as it’s hard to force someone to bathe if they do not understand why it is necessary.
The best approach is to be patient, understanding, and kind as the dementia progresses. Simple steps such as providing help with bathing and dressing, verbal reminders, and being positive and reassuring can help care for someone. Doing so can help to preserve dignity and provide comfort for them.
Know More About Dementia Symptoms
In conclusion, if you or someone close to you shows any signs of dementia symptoms, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Look out for the signs and symptoms listed in this article, and remember that early diagnosis and treatment can help minimize the impact of this condition. Don’t wait and take action today.
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