Recognizing The Signs of Early Onset Dementia

Memory loss is a frustrating ailment that can potentially disrupt every facet of daily living. While it’s common for aging adults and seniors to develop some degree of memory loss, this symptom may also indicate the presence of a much more serious condition of early onset dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. For those unfamiliar with Alzheimer’s, this progressive brain disease causes a reduction in thinking, reasoning, and memory skills. Every case of Alzheimer’s is different because patients may develop one or more symptoms with some symptoms being more obvious than others.

Nevertheless, there are a number of signs that may suggest the early onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s. As we alluded to previously, memory loss is one of the most common signs of both diseases. Your loved one may start forgetting information that was recently learned, as well as important dates and events in his or her lifetime. Other signs of early onset dementia or Alzheimer’s include:

• Relaying the same information over and over again to others
• Asking for the same information over and over again
• Increasing the use of memory aids, such as reminder notes
• Having difficulty following a plan or working with numbers
• Having difficulty completing daily tasks at home

These are some of the most basic signs of early onset dementia that should grab your attention. Still, there are other signs that may raise some concerns, but are not necessarily indicators of dementia. For example, people with general, age-related memory loss may occasionally forget names or appointments, but most of the time they’ll remember them later. Other examples of general, age-related memory loss include:

• Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook or keeping track of monthly bills
• Needing to use settings on a microwave or record book from time to time
• Developing some confusion about the days of the week, but figuring it out later
• Misplacing items from time to time, but finding them later

While the latter symptoms mentioned above can be disheartening, they’re not usually something to worry about. Nevertheless, even the smallest signs of memory loss can be misinterpreted, so it’s important to encourage your loved one to be evaluated by a specialist. If you begin to notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. To err on the safe side, schedule an appointment with their doctor.

Fortunately, early detection can help your loved one receive the treatment and care they need to improve cognitive ability and slow the progression of their dementia or Alzheimer’s, if they receive a diagnosis. While there a cure is not yet available, treatment for these conditions may also provide your loved one with a level of independence for a longer period of time. The certified caregivers, memory care experts, and dedicated nursing staff at Paradise Living Centers care for residents as if they were family. If your loved one is suffering from the debilitating symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s, call 480.878.4112 Paradise Living Centers today to speak to our Care Manager and learn more about our services.