8 Signs & Symptoms of dementia. Many people start to wonder as their loved one ages if they are starting to have signs of Dementia or Alzheimer’s. How do you know if it is just a regular part of aging, or something more?
A great resource for this is Alzheimer’s through the Stages: A Caregiver’s Guide. Keep reading for 8 signs and symptoms of dementia.
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Whether your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s, there are some important measures you can take to keep your loved one safe as they age. Such as setting them up with a medical alert button or getting them an auto stove safety shut off.
8 Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Dementia
This list is some of the most common early signs and symptoms of dementia
- Mood swings
- Forgetfulness- such as difficulty remembering appointments or important dates
- Difficulty learning new things- difficulty following basic directions.
- Repetition- asking the same things over and over
- Struggles in communicating, such as having difficulty finding the appropriate words to express what you mean to say
- Losing personal belongings
- Getting lost frequently or forgetting how you got somewhere
- Poor decision making
How to Delay or Slow Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia
While you are not able to fully prevent Alzheimer’s or Dementia, there are steps you can take to help slow or delay the effects. A great resource for this is Brain Health as You Age: A Practical Guide to Maintenance and Prevention.
Cognitive intervention is the best way to help ensure you remain cognitively independent for as long as possible. Therefore, doing brain training or brain games is a way to help you effectively retain your cognitive function.
Below is a list of ways to help with with the different aspects of aging.
- Maintaining a healthy Diet- 100 Recipes to Boost Brain Health
- Cardiovascular Exercise- Fitness tracker
- Cognitive Intervention (Brain Games/Training)
- Managing Chronic illnesses
- Stress Relief- try an aromatherapy diffuser
- Proper Sleep
- Socialization- a
Many people with parents suffering from Dementia worry they will also have it as they age. This is not necessarily the case. While you are not able to prevent Dementia or Alzheimer’s, there are ways to help the symptoms. Additionally, while genetics do play a role in your disposition to Alzheimer’s, it does NOT mean that you will get it. Environment also plays a part.
What to do if a Parent Suffers from Dementia or Alzheimer’s
If you are concerned about dementia the best thing to do is to speak with a health care provider.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Guide READ MORE…
Care Options for Seniors with Dementia READ MORE…