Can Seniors Hide Symptoms of Dementia?

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Dementia typically begins with early warning signs that can be hard to detect. In some cases, seniors are able to effectively hide symptoms of the condition. This can make it difficult for you to ensure your senior loved ones gets the Philadelphia Home Care he or she needs. Here are some signs to watch for.

Is Your Loved One Having Trouble Answering Questions?

Seniors who are in the early stages of dementia usually have an increasingly difficult time answering questions. Since their ability to think clearly is affected, they might become defensive when asked questions or refuse to answer them in a straightforward manner. If your loved one is deflecting questions on a frequent basis, be patient and talk openly about why he or she doesn’t seem to be answering them directly.

Is He or She Switching Subjects Frequently?

During the early symptoms of dementia, seniors typically still have enough awareness to realize what is happening. They might change the topic if you try to talk to them about their symptoms or what they are going through. This makes it easy to avoid facing the possibility of having dementia. Try to have your loved one stay on topic during conversations by gently, but firmly, refusing to allow him or her to change the subject.

Is He or She Having Others Make Decisions?

Seniors with early dementia symptoms often have trouble making decisions. To hide this, they might turn to other family members or their Philadelphia caregiver for help. If your loved one behaves this way, be supportive and encourage him or her to make decisions independently.

Is He or She Becoming Socially Withdrawn?

Some seniors with dementia begin to withdraw from those around them in the early stages of the disease. They might explain this behavior by claiming to feel ill or just not in the mood for company. Make sure your loved one stays socially active on a regular basis so he or she receives regular mental stimulation.

If your senior loved one needs help with mental and social stimulation, consider hiring a dementia caregiver in Philadelphia. At Home Care Assistance, all of our caregivers are trained in the proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method, an activities-based program that helps slow cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. In addition to dementia and Alzheimer’s care we also offer comprehensive care for post-stroke seniors and those with Parkinson’s. For more information on our elderly care services and to schedule a free consultation, call one of our Care Managers at (215) 645-4663 today.

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