Seeing the effects of aging on someone you love can be a difficult emotional experience. You want to hang on to the way things are and once were, and you fear what further injuries or illnesses may lie ahead for your loved one. Dementia is a condition that is particularly difficult to witness a loved one endure. But while dementia is an inevitable condition for all of us as we age, identifying early signs can help to make its effects more bearable and perhaps prevent rapid advancement.
Dementia is not a specific disease, but rather, an overarching description of a range of symptoms that point to a decline in cognitive acuity. While the symptoms of dementia can vary greatly, they are most commonly linked with a decline in several of the following areas:
- Memory
- Visual perception
- Communication and understanding of language
- Ability to hold focus and attention
- Practical reasoning and judgement
Any one of these symptoms can be attributed to a number of other conditions, but when two or more begin to show prevalence, then your loved one may be slowly showing signs of dementia. Typically, dementia affects short term memory more substantially than long term memory. So, if you’re loved one can recall events of many years ago with pinpoint accuracy, but has a hard time remembering the previous day or what was said in a recent conversation, there may be cause for concern. Additionally, if you begin to notice a significant change in personality, especially in the areas of judgement, logic, and reason, dementia may be to blame.
By keeping an eye out for early warning signs, you give your loved one the benefit of receiving medical care that may help to slow the progression of the condition. And because dementia can only be slowed and, unfortunately, cannot be cured, early detection can give you more time to plan for the possibility that your loved one may need dementia home care.
At Balanced Home Care, we specialize in providing seniors with compassionate care and the highest level of respect. Whether you’re looking for help with a loved one who is in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia, or you’re looking for options for the future, contact our friendly staff today to schedule a complimentary assessment.
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