Recognizing Dementia: Key Signs and When to Seek Professional Care
Dementia is a condition that affects memory, thinking, and reasoning, interfering with daily life and independence. While occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, persistent cognitive decline may be a sign of something more serious. Recognizing the early signs of dementia can help families seek care and support for their loved ones.
Recognizing Dementia: Key Signs and When to Seek Professional Care
Common symptoms of dementia include:
1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life
One of the most noticeable early signs is forgetting important details, like a grandchild’s birthday, a standing coffee date with a close friend, or the name of a new neighbor. They may also repeatedly ask for the same information or rely on memory aids, such as calendars or notes around the house, more frequently.
2. Difficulty with Problem-Solving and Planning
Dementia can cause difficulties in following recipes, managing finances, or keeping track of bills. In the early stages of dementia, your loved one may struggle with concentration and take longer to complete everyday tasks.
3. Confusion with Time or Place
As dementia progresses, losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time is common. Some people with dementia may forget where they are or how they arrived at a particular location.
4. Challenges with Speaking and Writing
Loved ones with dementia may struggle to keep up with conversations, often losing their train of thought or repeating themselves while talking with family and friends. They also may stop in the middle of a discussion and struggle to find the right words, or they may call objects by the wrong name.
5. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
As people age, it is normal to misplace things occasionally. However, loved ones with dementia may put objects in unusual places and be unable to retrace their steps to find them. They might also accuse others of stealing when they cannot find their belongings.
6. Poor Judgment and Decision-Making
A decline in judgment may lead to financial mistakes, such as giving away large amounts of money or falling for scams. Your loved one may also neglect personal hygiene or make unsafe choices, such as forgetting to turn off the stove, leaving doors unlocked, or wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather.
7. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities
Dementia can cause loved ones to lose interest in hobbies, social events, or work responsibilities. They may avoid activities they previously enjoyed due to difficulty remembering how to engage in them.
8. Changes in Mood and Personality
Your loved one may become more confused, suspicious, depressed, or anxious. They might also become easily upset when out of their comfort zone or around unfamiliar people.
When to Seek Care
If you notice these common symptoms of dementia in yourself or a loved one, it is important to seek professional evaluation. Early diagnosis allows for better planning, treatment options, and access to support services.
Consult a doctor if cognitive changes interfere with daily life or safety.
Consider in-home care such as Kore Cares if managing daily tasks becomes difficult.
How Kore Cares Can Help
At Kore Cares, we provide compassionate in-home care services tailored to individuals with dementia. Our trained caregivers assist with daily tasks, medication reminders, companionship, and safety monitoring, allowing individuals to remain in the comfort of their homes.
If you or a loved one is experiencing signs of dementia, contact Kore Cares today at 888-546-0704 to discuss personalized care options and find the right support for your needs.
To learn more about what services Kore Cares can provide for you or a loved one please visit our services page.