Dementia is an all too common diagnosis affecting about 4% of adults over 65. If you suspect your loved one has it, it’s never too soon to act. Early detection can help patients use treatments more effectively and have more say in care decisions.
So, what are the signs that relatives should be looking out for? This article will provide a thorough review.
What are the Early Signs of Dementia?
The following symptoms may indicate your loved one is experiencing a cognitive issue:
Memory Loss
It’s normal for people to have occasional memory lapses as they age, but if your relative forgets recently learned information or important dates and events, asks the same questions repeatedly, or increasingly needs to rely on a memory aide, it may be a warning sign.
Reduced Ability in Problem Solving and Planning
People with Alzheimer’s and dementia may become unable to follow a plan or work with numbers. For example, they may have difficulty following a recipe or paying bills. They may take longer to complete these tasks due to a lack of concentration.
Difficulty Completing Daily Tasks
When dementia sets in, even familiar tasks can become challenging to complete. Your loved one may struggle to organize a grocery list, drive or walk to a familiar location, or operate a device.
Confusion with Time or Place
During early onset, the person may lose track of dates and time and be unable to remember the date or season. They may have difficulty with time association, perceiving past or future events, and get confused regarding where they are and how they got there.
Visual and Spatial Issues
In the first stages of the disease, your loved one may have visual and spatial issues that make it difficult for them to read, balance, judge distance, and determine colors.
Changes in Personality
Men and women with dementia may experience personality changes, becoming anxious, depressed, fearful, upset, confused, and paranoid often. They may also withdraw from activities they once enjoyed.
Problems with Words and Speaking
Other symptoms include verbal issues. Your loved one may often lose their train of thought and be unable to join or follow a conversation.
What to Do When Loved Ones Show Early Signs of Dementia
If you see the primeiros sinais (first signs) of dementia, see a doctor as soon as possible. They will prescribe medication that can reduce some sintomas (symptoms) and help families adjust to prevent episodes. A medical provider will help relatives create a safe environment and adapt to changing needs.
Caring Family Can Help
Although families often try to help loved ones with dementia, they may discover it becomes more than they can handle, especially as symptoms progress. Caring Family can help. We offer in-home care for people with cognitive issues and specialized needs, ensuring they get the attention they deserve.
Contact us to ensure your loved one enjoys a high quality of life.
FAQs
What can be done for early dementia?
Early dementia is typically managed through various lifestyle adjustments, therapies, and medications. Standard treatments include cognitive stimulation, cognitive rehabilitation, and reminiscence story work. The patient will also benefit from physical and social activities and a healthy diet.
Can you reverse dementia if caught early on?
No, dementia is not reversible. However, there are treatable conditions that mimic dementia, which is why it’s essential to see a doctor right away. For example, infections, metabolic issues, and brain tumors can cause dementia-like symptoms. Treating them early on reverses symptoms and can even save lives.
How to test for dementia at home?
If you suspect a loved one has dementia, you may want to test them at home before taking them to a doctor. The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination (SAGE) is a simple test that can be downloaded online. It assesses memory, orientation, learning, language, and drawing skills to determine if someone has dementia.
