Caring for a loved one as they age can mean noticing changes in their memory and behavior. While an occasional forgotten name or misplaced key is normal, more significant memory problems may signal something deeper.
For example, someone with natural age-related changes to memory may forget a name and then remember it later. However, a person with early dementia symptoms may forget information they were just given. Other early signs of memory loss include misplacing items, mood changes, and difficulties with language. When memory loss symptoms begin putting your loved one at risk, it may be time to consider memory care.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia refers to a range of conditions that cause cognitive decline in thinking and memory. Dementia is not a natural part of aging, even though it’s more common in older adults.
Types of Dementia
There are many types of dementia, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease: This is the most common type of dementia. It’s caused by an accumulation of proteins called amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
- Vascular dementia: This type of dementia is caused by disruptions in or damage to blood flow to the brain.
- Lewy body dementia: In this type of dementia, there is an accumulation of the protein alpha-synuclein (otherwise known as Lewy bodies).
- Frontotemporal dementia: This is a rarer type of dementia, and it typically affects people younger than 60.
- Mixed dementia: Some people have more than one type of dementia.
It’s important to know that other medical conditions can have similar symptoms, and some causes of dementia symptoms are treatable or reversible. Assessment by a qualified healthcare professional is essential for appropriate diagnosis and care.
The Difference Between Normal Aging & Dementia
It’s natural to forget a word or misplace something now and then. But symptoms that disrupt daily activities may be a sign of dementia.
Older adults can experience typical age-related memory lapses. These may include:
- Forgetting they have an appointment but remembering it later
- Occasionally missing a bill payment
- Needing occasional help with some tasks, such as working with technology
- Misplacing objects now and again, but able to retrace their steps
- Searching for the right word every so often
However, the following may signal cause for concern:
- Forgetting what time of year it is or information that was recently received
- Persistent difficulty keeping up with bills and household tasks
- Trouble with everyday tasks that should be familiar, such as writing a grocery list
- Consistently misplacing objects and not being able to find them
- Difficulty holding a conversation
Here is a handy infographic differentiating typical aging and atypical dementia signs.
Early Signs of Dementia
Recognizing early signs of dementia means you can ask for support and plan earlier. Here are more signs to watch for.
Short-Term Memory Problems & Repetition
Significant forgetfulness is a classic red flag. A person with early dementia may recall events from decades ago, but not what they were told a minute ago. They may also ask the same question multiple times, repeat themselves, or frequently leave appliances running.
Misplacing Objects
Everyone loses things sometimes, but pay attention to patterns. People with early memory loss may put items in unusual places (e.g. keys in the fridge), lose objects and not be able to retrace steps to find them, or frequently accuse others of stealing their belongings
Mood Changes & Social Withdrawal
Shifts in mood and engagement can signal early dementia. Depression, anxiety, and trouble adapting to new routines and environments are also signs. People with early dementia may also withdraw from their favorite activities and become indifferent to things that used to be enjoyable, such as social time with loved ones.
Difficulties With Language
A person in the early stages of dementia may have trouble with language and communication. They may struggle to find the right word, suddenly stop in the middle of a sentence, or find storylines on TV difficult to follow.
Trouble With Day-to-Day Tasks
Planning and decision-making can become harder for a person living with early dementia. They may have trouble following a recipe or have issues organizing schedules and remembering appointments. They may also have poor judgment—for example, not waiting for cars to stop before crossing the street.
Disorientation
People with early dementia may have trouble orienting themselves in time and place. They may forget the time of year or get lost going to familiar places.
Changes in Perception
Some people developing dementia experience changes in vision and balance. This can affect reading, driving, and perceiving color.
When to Consider Memory Care for a Loved One
Moving to a senior living community is never an easy or simple decision. But when dementia symptoms become disruptive or dangerous, it may be time to consider memory care.
Memory care is a form of long-term live-in care specifically designed to support people with memory issues like Alzheimer’s and dementia. For example, Cedar Creek Senior Living offers a memory care program that includes 24/7 staff, medication management, and engaging social programs and activities. Services and amenities include three meals a day, housekeeping services, a salon, a chapel, and a fitness room.
Learn more about what’s included in our memory care program here or contact us to schedule a tour.
