Share:

Mild memory and cognitive issues can be a normal part of aging, but if they start interfering with daily life, they can also be attributed to dementia. This diagnosis can be hard for families to process and accept, but understanding the early signs can help you get the elderly care services needed to support your loved one. Here are a few signs that may indicate your loved one is experiencing dementia instead of the effects of normal aging. 

How to Tell If a Loved One May Have Dementia

1. Increased Forgetfulness

Forgetting an occasional appointment isn’t usually something to worry about. However, most people will later realize that they forgot to do something. If your loved one is starting to develop dementia, however, they may never remember a scheduled appointment or may forget seemingly basic things like the names of close family members. 

2. Confusion or Disorientation

elderly care

Dementia may also lead people to forget where they are, where they put something, or what task they were just trying to accomplish. This can make it difficult for them to complete everyday tasks like dressing or brushing their teeth. It may also make them seem confused or lead to injury if they get distracted during intense tasks like driving or cooking. To prevent accidents or injury, elderly care services can offer assistance with these responsibilities.

3. Decreased Language Skills

Dementia may also cause people to forget seemingly simple words. Your loved one may spend more time trying to think of how to phrase something, or they may replace words they forgot with other terms that aren't relevant to what they were saying. This can seem like rambling or constant repetition. 

4. Personality Changes

Decreased cognitive function can make it more difficult for people with dementia to socialize or participate in hobbies they once enjoyed. The condition and its consequences can make your loved one seem withdrawn or may lead to mood swings or irritability. It may seem like your loved one's personality has suddenly shifted or like they’re uninterested in things they used to love.

 

If you’re looking for elderly care for a parent or loved one with dementia, contact Mount Washington Care Center in Cincinnati, OH. The nursing care facility provides 24-hour services to residents and takes a personalized approach to their treatment. The experienced nursing team offers medical, emotional, and even spiritual support based on the unique needs of each patient. To speak with a team member or apply for elderly care residency, visit the website or call (513) 231-4561. 

tracking