What Are The Signs Of Dementia & What To Do About The,
As we age, it's normal and to be expected that our brain functions decline. It's an unfortunate part of the process of aging.
However, at some point, we all begin to worry if something more is going on. Maybe you are noticing signs of dementia in your aging parents or a family member. Or perhaps your own symptoms are causing you to wonder if you are beginning to develop dementia.
Dementia isn't a specific disease, but rather a collection of diseases that cause dementia. Alzheimer's, for instance, is a specific disease caused by dementia.
If you are worried about yourself or another family member, it's important to know the signs of dementia. These also aren't an indicator of a specific disease like Alzheimer's being present. Let's go over some signs of dementia and what you can do about them.
Signs Of Dementia
Memory Loss
Remembering certain details of long-ago events becomes hazy for everyone at some point. However, if memory loss is frequent and happening with things going on right now, it could be a sign that something more is going on.
We all become forgetful as we age, but if you are noticing that you can't remember or are forgetting things almost daily, it can be worthwhile to see if you have any other symptoms.
Getting Lost Easily
When you've lived in one area for a long time, you likely know the roads like the back of your hand. However, are you finding that you (or someone you love) are frequently getting lost while driving?
Difficulty with driving and getting to places is another indicator that something more is going on.
Decline In Problem Solving Skills
Some people are natural problem solvers. While others take a little bit more time to resolve something. Not being a quick problem solver is not an indicator of dementia in itself. But, if someone once was pretty decent and good at it, and then there's a decline, it could indicate a decline in cognitive functioning.
Personality Changes
We all go through changes in our personalities. It's part of the natural growth process, after all.
Big changes in personality, over a certain time, can be another sign of dementia starting. Although, it is important to note that this isn't a super strong indicator of dementia. The reason for that is that personality changes can be the result of other issues. Such as big life changes, depression or other mood disorders such as anxiety.
It is something that should be paid attention to, especially if there are other signs of dementia.
What To Do About Dementia?
Dementia is something that scares most people. Even just the idea of it can cause someone to feel incredibly anxious or depressed. Especially when you are seeing signs of it in someone you love.
Knowing the various signs & symptoms of dementia is just the first step. Knowing where to go or what to do after you have this knowledge is a completely different challenge.
Starting with your family doctor or primary physician is a great first step. Talking to a licensed professional who has some knowledge about dementia and it's symptoms can be really helpful. However, this isn't your only option.
Dementia Evaluations can be a great step in determining if you are starting to develop it. Not only that, but in some cases, they can help catch dementia early enough. Which can prevent it from progressing even further.
Dealing with the possibility of dementia is scary for everyone involved. However, at our practice, we wish to ease this anxiety and give you clear steps of what to do. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for a dementia evaluation as soon as possible.
