Early Signs of Dementia
Dementia is a life-changing condition, not only for the person diagnosed with the disease but also for family and friends. We understand that navigating the journey of living with dementia may be a challenging, frustrating and at times overwhelming experience.
In this blog post, we discuss the importance of recognising early signs of dementia and provide some information on how dementia care in Chadwell Heath, Romford can help.
Understanding dementia
Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. This progressive group of diseases is caused by abnormal changes in the brain that lead to a decline in cognitive function. These changes affect a person’s ability to communicate, remember, act and think, ultimately impeding their independence. As you can imagine, these changes can interfere with someone’s ability to perform daily tasks or activities, potentially even affecting their safety. It’s not uncommon for people living with dementia to lose their belongings, forget about appointments or get lost in familiar neighbourhoods.
It’s also important to note that dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are not the same thing. Rather, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Vascular dementia is another type of dementia. Both forms are associated with memory and communication problems. On the other hand, frontotemporal lobe dementia is more likely to affect personality and mood. Identifying and understanding the different types of dementia can help family members and healthcare professionals provide the right care and support.
Early signs of dementia
Because stages of dementia usually occur gradually, it can be easy to mistake the signs as age-related memory loss. For example, many ageing adults occasionally misplace their belongings or forget the name of an acquaintance. For this reason, dementia can go undiagnosed for several years.
Dementia affects memory and communication on a deeper level. Those with dementia may not be able to complete tasks independently, experience challenges following conversations, begin to repeat things and forget the names of close family and friends. They may also experience disorientation and confusion, even in their own home. In addition, they may find daily life skills or coordination challenging. This can appear as putting things in the wrong place or difficulty using a hairbrush or tie shoelaces. Lastly, people with dementia may also experience significant changes in mood, behaviour, and judgement.
Why early diagnosis is important
An early dementia diagnosis allows for proper care and treatment options to be put in place. While a diagnosis may understandably be accompanied by feelings of shock, fear and even anger, an early diagnosis ensures that your loved one gets access to services and support as soon as possible. This means they can plan for the future, organise financial or legal matters, and prepare for the new challenges that lie ahead.
Specialist dementia care
As long-term members of Dementia Friends and the Alzheimer’s Society, we are fully informed of the latest information and medical advances in dementia care. In addition, our staff are trained as dementia care specialists and have a thorough understanding of how to manage mental and emotional challenges associated with dementia. To nurture and support those with dementia, we offer specialist activities such as access to a sensory room and reminiscence and recall sessions.
Get in touch
If you or a loved one could benefit from dementia care here at Rowallan House, we invite you to contact us or call us on 0800 999 8499. We would be happy to provide more information or answer any of your questions.