November 26, 2021
Dementia is a syndrome characterized by impaired cognitive function, such as the ability to remember things and make decisions. It’s normal to experience minor memory loss and forgetfulness with age, but when should you be concerned about your loved one?
Personality Changes
Behavioral and personality changes are common in people with dementia. Someone with dementia may seem apathetic, anxious, or depressed. They may also experience mood swings or seem withdrawn.
Someone with dementia may also begin to say things that they wouldn’t normally say or do things that they wouldn’t normally do. Some examples of behavioral changes that are seen in people with dementia include:
- Aggressive behavior such as hitting or kicking people who try to help
- Undressing in public
- Making obscene gestures
- Saying things that seem hurtful
One reason you may notice a change in behavior in your loved one is because someone with dementia may lose the ability to express themselves and therefore may begin to act out.
Difficulty Communicating or Following a Conversation
As dementia progresses, the affected person can gradually lose their ability to communicate. A few common symptoms of dementia that can affect communication include difficulty:
- Focusing or paying attention
- Speaking
- Expressing themselves clearly
- Understanding speech
- Following storylines
- Communicating rational ideas
- Remembering basic facts, such as names, dates, and places
Wandering and Getting Lost in Familiar Places
Wandering is a common symptom of dementia and can occur in the early stages of the disease. Pay attention to whether your loved one is getting home later than usual after their normal walk or drive or if they’re getting lost in familiar places, as these may be signs of wandering.
There are many reasons why a person with dementia may wander. They may be:
- Following old routines, like going to work
- Feeling anxious about being in a crowded place and looking for a more quiet place
- Looking for something they need at that moment, such as a bathroom or food
- Experiencing trouble with navigation and visual guidance
- Searching for something or someone
Repetitive Behavior
Someone with dementia may say or do something over and over. This can occur because they’re experiencing short-term memory loss and can’t remember that they said or did something.
Repetitive behavior can also be a way for someone with dementia to:
- Cope with anxiety / to soothe themselves
- Express a concern
- Ask for help
When to See a Doctor
While dementia mainly affects people who are 65 years and older, it is not a normal part of aging. If you notice early signs of dementia in a loved one, talk to their doctor. Early, more subtle symptoms of dementia are often referred to as “mild cognitive impairment.” In some people, these symptoms will get worse and develop into dementia. Dementia is progressive and gradually gets worse with time. Diagnosing dementia early on can help your loved one receive the maximum benefits of treatment.
As dementia progresses, your loved one will most likely require care. At-home care services allow aging adults to remain in familiar surroundings. JSP Home Care Services to aging adults with dementia and cognitive change. To learn more, contact us online or call us at 866.860.2528.
Sources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-dementia-symptoms-types-and-diagnosis
