Detecting Dementia in Your Parents

by Imperfect Women:The onset of dementia can occur quicker than you would imagine. Adults as young as fifty can develop dementia and it affects a great number of the elderly. Just as you would be attentive to any changes in your young loved ones behavior, it is necessary to also do so for the changes that occur in our older relatives.Identifying symptoms early on can be paramount to your elderly relative’s safety and well-being. Although the development of dementia can be subtle, if you are aware of the symptoms it will be easier to identify.One of the most common indicators of dementia is the loss of memory. It may be worth noting how frequently and extensively your loved one has difficulty with memory.Memory loss is common in old age regardless of dementia so it is important to monitor and assess your loved ones memory loss. The quicker you establish whether or not your loved one has dementia the quicker you will be able to provide care for them and keep them safe.Unlike other diseases, patients with dementia are unable to realize that they are in fact developing the onset of the disease. This is why it is paramount that you keep an eye on your elderly loved ones. As mentioned, the loss of memory is an early indicator. Forgetting family members’ names or important dates is something you many see in the early stages.Another strong indicator is a sudden change in behavior such as becoming inexplicably confused and combative as a result. If you see this combination, it may be the time to get your loved one assessed and check for the onset of dementia.Monitoring your loved ones regular routine and noting inconsistencies is also advised. If activities they routinely participated in, such as household activities and chores, are ignored or elapsed, it may be a serious indication that they are at high threat. This type of beginning signs of dementia should be taken seriously.Once you have had your loved one diagnosed with dementia by their health care providers, it may be time to consider how to deal with this diagnosis based on the severity of the condition.It may be that your loved one now needs full-time care and might be time to start considering a nursing home. Although this may be a hard decision, if the signs of dementia are recognized early enough you will be able to adjust to the situation and make a more informed and better decision. This will ensure the best care needed will be received by your loved one.At the end of the day, we all want the best for our loved ones. As parents we want the best for our children. As children of elderly parents, let’s make sure we pay attention and monitor their needs too so they can live the rest of their years in the best quality situation as possible.Source: http://www.imperfectwomen.com/detecting-dementia-in-your-parents