5 signs that someone you love has dementia

Accepting that someone you love may be showing signs of dementia is a scary prospect. You need to come to terms with all the things that then follow. They may become difficult to manage, and you may even have to move them into a nursing home. With the rise of people filing a nursing home lawsuit, this may be one of the key things which is frightening you. If you do have any concerns, then you should go with them to their doctor and get a diagnosis. Lots of symptoms could also be signs of many other medical concerns such as stroke, and so you need to seek professional help as soon as possible. Plus, once you have a diagnosis, you can start to prepare and do things to help slow the process down by keeping their minds active. Their doctor should be able to advise you with this.

Dementia covers a range of degenerative brain conditions, the most common of which being Alzheimer’s. But they are all connected by some common symptoms, here are some signs to look out for.

Memory Loss

Perhaps the most noticeable sign is memory loss, maybe they are beginning to forget or confuse your name or who you are. They may also start to forget to pay their bills on time or keep appointments.

Lack of personal care

You may notice that they are not looking after themselves as they once were. This may be because they are forgetting to do so. They could be forgetting to wash or eat. They may also be finding it harder to upkeep their homes.

Stress

They may be more stressed than more. They could start to find things frustrating or even begin to become aggressive. There is a strong link between stress and people suffering with dementia. If this is unusual behavior, try and ask them if there is anything bothering them. If there is no clear answer, then this could be an early sign of dementia. It has also been suggested that stress can be a trigger for someone’s dementia.

Difficulty performing familiar tasks

They could find themselves having difficulty with things they have always done. They may have had hobbies which they stop doing because they find it too hard.

Difficulty with language

They may start to find it hard to join in conversations. They may also mix up their words or get frustrated, trying to tell you something. Often people with dementia also start to repeat themselves. Everyone repeats themselves, but if they are doing this considerably more then usual, then this could be an early sign.

Wandering People with dementia wander for many reasons. They may become confused or lost or lose a sense of night and day. They may be leaving the house and forget why they have left. They may also be searching for something from the past. Often, they may not know why they have done it. If you know their neighbors, you may want to ask them if they have noticed anything unusual about your loved one, including signs of wandering.