The 7 Early Signs of Dementia You Should Be Looking For

by | Apr 18, 2023 | Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia

When it comes to dementia, there are many signs that can be observed early on. Understanding these early signs can help to detect the disease sooner and provide the opportunity to take action. Here are the 7 early signs of dementia.

1. Confusion

2. Trouble Completing Tasks

3. Poor Decision Making

4. Distractedness

5. Memory Loss

6. Excessive Forgetfulness

7. Physical Changes

 

Confusion is one of the early signs of dementia

Confusion is a common sign of dementia and can be seen in patients who have difficulty remembering recent events, making decisions, and understanding relationships. It can also be seen in patients who have trouble with problem-solving and abstract thinking.

It’s important to be aware of the signs of confusion so that you can identify the early stages of dementia in yourself or a loved one. Confusion can manifest itself in various ways, such as trouble completing tasks, poor decision-making, and a lack of awareness of one’s surroundings. It can also present itself as an inability to remember recent events or conversations.

If you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms, it’s important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. Recognizing the signs of confusion early on can help you gain control over the progression of dementia, and it may even be possible to delay the onset of its symptoms. Paying attention to changes in behavior and talking to your doctor if you have concerns can make a world of difference when it comes to managing dementia.

What is meant by “trouble completing tasks”?

Difficulty completing tasks can be a sign of dementia if it persists over time. This may include forgetting to do things or becoming confused when attempting to complete tasks. It can also include having difficulty organizing tasks and having difficulty paying attention to details.

In the beginning stages, this can be common. Maybe mom cannot seem to make her favorite dish or leaves out an important ingredient. Or perhaps Dad cannot seem to get the lawnmower started even though he has done it a hundred times or more. Anyone can make mistakes like these but if this is a recurring event along with the other symptoms listed in this article it may be time for an evaluation.

Poor decision-making is often an early sign of dementia

Poor decision-making can be a sign of dementia if it persists over time. This can include making poor choices, not knowing the consequences of actions, and having difficulty following through on plans or goals. It can also include not remembering important dates or events.

Dementia can have a devastating effect on your financial decisions. As dementia progresses, the individual may struggle to understand the consequences of their financial decisions, leading to poor choices. This can have serious implications for the individual, their family, and their finances.

It is also important for family members to be aware of how dementia can affect financial decision-making so that they can provide support and assistance when needed. With awareness and support, individuals with dementia can make sound financial decisions and manage their money responsibly.

What is distractedness? Is this one of the early signs of dementia?

Distractedness is a common sign of dementia and can be seen in patients who are easily distracted or lose focus easily. It may also include constant wandering or having trouble staying on task or focused for long periods of time. It can also include disorganized speech and behavior.

Distractedness can also be caused by underlying medical issues that are contributing to dementia. A person may be preoccupied with thoughts or memories, or they may be easily sidetracked when trying to complete a task. It’s important to be aware of these signs and take the necessary steps to help the person with dementia manage their distractedness. If left unchecked, it can lead to further confusion and trouble completing tasks. It’s important to remember that everyone experiences dementia differently, and this is just one sign of the condition. With proper care and understanding, people living with dementia can still lead fulfilling lives.

What is memory loss? This is one of the early signs of dementia.

Memory loss is a common sign of dementia, and can be seen in patients who have difficulty remembering recent events, people’s names, or tasks they have completed in the past. It can also include forgetting where items are located, not being able to find items, or not being able to recall conversations or events from earlier in the day or week.

While just about everyone forgets now and then dementia memory loss is much different. Dementia memory loss is much different than the normal forgetfulness that comes with aging.

It often involves confusion, trouble completing tasks, and poor decision-making. People with dementia may have difficulty recognizing familiar faces, remembering the names of objects, or following directions. They may also struggle to communicate their thoughts or feelings and may not remember events that have recently occurred.

It is important to recognize the signs of dementia memory loss so that appropriate help can be provided. If you notice changes in behavior or speech, confusion, or difficulty with activities that were once easy to do, it is important to speak to a doctor. Early diagnosis can help determine the best treatment plan for the individual and enable them to get the care they need.

We Are Here To Help

At Sycamore Creek Ranch Memory Care we are here to help. We want families to make the best decision for their situation.

Furthermore, the staff at Sycamore Creek Ranch is proactive. That means we are not waiting for a problem to arise. Instead, we are actively engaged with each and every resident. And with only 16 residents we can do that!

If you are looking for Memory Care in The Woodlands or Memory Care in Spring, Texas come for a tour at Sycamore Creek Ranch! See how we can help.

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