Dementia is a cluster of symptoms that can make it difficult for seniors to complete everyday tasks or to live independently. Dementia is easier to treat when it’s detected early, so caregivers and family members should be alert for the common signs and symptoms of this condition. Here are some of the most frequent symptoms of dementia.
Reduced Cognitive Function
Memory loss is usually the first and most noticeable symptom of dementia, impairing general communication skills as well as the ability to remember people, places, and events. The memory challenges caused by dementia can make it difficult to carry out daily tasks, such as following a recipe or driving to and from familiar places. If your aging loved one has dementia, he or she may require assistance with daily tasks to ensure they’re completed safely, including taking the correct dosage of medication and shutting off appliances, such as the stove, after use.
Dementia is a serious issue that affects a senior’s health, wellbeing, and ability to perform everyday activities. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Behavioral Changes
For some seniors, dementia may cause personality changes and inappropriate behavior. Dementia can also lead seniors to neglect their personal care, nutrition, and safety. As a result, seniors with this condition often experience a loss of confidence or feelings of depression and isolation. You may start to pick up on these symptoms in your loved one if he or she begins avoiding family and social gatherings.
Physical Changes
Some types of dementia are caused by a series of small strokes, which may result in muscle spasms or difficulty with balance, walking, and other motor skills. These physical changes can sometimes cause seniors with dementia to experience falls, difficulty moving quickly, or tremors. In some instances, a professional dementia caregiver may be needed for around-the-clock safety monitoring and mobility assistance so the senior can continue living in his or her own home.
As dementia progresses, it may become increasingly difficult to manage simple daily tasks. Families looking for top-rated Philadelphia in-home care providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
Psychological Changes
Dementia can increase agitation, delirium, hallucinations, and paranoia. In addition to rapid mood swings, dementia may lead to feelings of suspicion, fear, or anxiety as the disease progresses. Some seniors also experience a condition called sundowning, where they have increased psychological symptoms at sundown. If your loved one experiences these feelings of agitation or fear, he or she may require dementia treatment.
Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Philadelphia families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today at (215) 645-4663.