Memory loss can affect a person’s ability to live life to the fullest extent. It can also be one of many Alzheimer’s and dementia warning signs.
Ultimately, it helps to keep an eye out for memory loss and other Alzheimer’s and dementia warning signs. If any of these signs crop up, an individual can undergo a medical evaluation. At this point, an individual can find out if he or she is dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
There are many Alzheimer’s and dementia warning signs to watch for, including:
1. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems
It can be tough for someone coping with Alzheimer’s or dementia to make a plan or follow instructions. In this instance, an individual may struggle when faced with decisions, too.
2. Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks
Alzheimer’s or dementia can disrupt a person’s memory, to the point where he or she forgets how to complete familiar tasks. If this occurs, an individual may require additional time to perform familiar tasks. Or, this individual may struggle to complete such tasks altogether.
3. Losing Track of the Time or Place
It is easy for a person coping with Alzheimer’s or dementia to forget seasons or the passage of time. In severe instances, people dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia may have no idea where they are or how they got there.
4. Problems with Speaking or Writing
Alzheimer’s or dementia can affect a person’s ability to communicate. It can cause people to have problems following a conversation or joining one. Individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia can also repeat themselves in the middle of a conversation or struggle with vocabulary.
5. Poor Judgment
People coping with Alzheimer’s or dementia may be more prone than others to rash decisions. These individuals may be inclined to fail to give decisions the time and attention they deserve. This can lead to poor decisions that lead to big mistakes.
How to Help Someone Who Shows Alzheimer’s and Dementia Warning Signs
If someone you know shows warning signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia, try not to panic. Encourage this individual to consult with a doctor. Next, the individual can receive medical attention.
For those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, there are several things you can do to help them on a daily basis. These include:
- Maintain a positive outlook. Give the person dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia the time and attention he or she deserves. Support this individual and offer to help him or her in any way you can.
- Be clear. Speak calmly and slowly and use simple and direct terms. Try not to get frustrated if you need to repeat information more than once.
- Recognize their feelings. Listen and respond to the individual’s feelings. If this individual feels upset, mad, or frustrated, let him or her know you understand and want to help.
At Anodyne, we are a trusted resource for healthcare professionals, employers, and families. We offer help with home care, nursing, and other medical positions, including those involving patients dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia. To learn more, please contact us today.
