As of 2017, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, a number expected to climb steadily every year. Most people understand that dementia affects memory as well as thinking and reasoning skills. Less commonly understood is the difference between memory loss that comes along with the normal aging process and early stage dementia.
Below are nine common warning signs to look out for when you visit your loved one:
- Constant/repetitive “loop” conversations, or very limited conversation/responses.
- Spoiled or expired food in the refrigerator, buying the same items when grocery shopping and letting them pile up. Missing meals, weight loss, eating only sweets.
- Mail, newspapers and bills that are piling up, unopened/unpaid.
- Missed medications, or multiple pill bottles without any scheduled routine (can’t recall if taken, or says they were taken but the pills are still in the daily organizer).
- Soiled clothing or forgetting to change clothes, unrecognized poor hygiene.
- New dents/scrapes on the car. Episodes of getting lost, no longer going to well-known locations.
- Missed/cancelled appointments (hair, doctor, routine social outings, etc.)
- Reclusive behavior, closing blinds/shades both day and night, paranoia/fear.
- Irritability, confusion that can’t be redirected.
If your loved one displays several of these behaviors, schedule an appointment with their physician as soon as possible. While there is still no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia, early intervention can help delay symptoms and slow the progression of memory impairment.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia and you’re unsure of next steps, call your nearest Bridges by EPOCH community—we can help provide the support, guidance and care you and your loved one need.