Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease currently affects over five million Americans over the age of 65, although it can and does affect younger men and women. Typically associated with the most common symptoms like memory loss and forgetfulness, Alzheimer’s dementia progresses from mild cognitive impairment to serious (severe) cognitive impairment with loss of language and motor skills. Other dementia impacts can vary. It is important to recognize the early signs, symptoms and contact your physician for more information.
The Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Dementia
Like every health condition, dementia affects everyone differently. Symptoms can develop slowly and build progressively over time. Some of the early warning signs and symptoms of dementia in seniors include:
Short-term memory loss and difficulty finding the right words or phrasing
Visible changes in mood and attitude, such as unexplained outbursts of anger
Confusion and difficulty completing tasks
Changes to spatial relation processing abilities, resulting in accidents or difficulty with directions, getting lost on the way to the grocery store or finding the way back home, for example
Obsessive and repetitive behaviors tied to memory loss
Difficulty with change or disruptions to normal patterns and routines, which can result in fear, stress, and anxiety
Causes and Risk Factors for Dementia
According to the Alzheimer's Association, there are a number of factors that can potentially increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and dementia:
Age
Family history
Genetics and Heredity
Race and ethnicity; Hispanic and African American adults have been found more likely to suffer from dementia and Alzheimer's disease than their Caucasian counterparts
Signs and Symptoms of Advanced Dementia
As dementia progresses, its symptoms attempt to rob the person’s quality of life and well-being. It impacts their ability to perform everyday tasks and activities they once enjoyed. Advanced dementia can also cause psychological changes and problems such as:
Changes in personality
Depression and anxiety
Inappropriate behavior
Paranoia
Agitation
The severity and intensity of dementia symptoms vary from person to person, and, depending on their individual circumstances, many families find it difficult to offer the full range of care necessary to keep those with dementia safe and comfortable.
How to Support a Person With Dementia
In-home caregivers and other memory care resources are available to support seniors dealing with dementia to maintain their dignity, sense of purpose and quality of life. There are memory care programs designed to offer custom and individualized attention to ensure that all of your loved one's needs are met now and as their symptoms, progress and evolve.