Dementia is a decline in cognitive function that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Although this is not a normal part of the aging process, it becomes more common as people get older. Early signs of dementia can be very subtle and may go unnoticed for some time, often being dismissed as natural age-related forgetfulness. However, as dementia progresses, symptoms become more pronounced and can significantly impair daily life. In this context, understanding the signs of dementia can help with early diagnosis and intervention.
Loss of memory
Memory loss is one of the most recognizable symptoms of dementia, especially short-term memory. A person can forget recent events, conversations, or appointments while retaining memories from many years ago. Initially, these memory loss may seem harmless, such as forgetting where the keys are or what they had for breakfast, but as the condition worsens, the memory loss becomes debilitating. than. They may have difficulty remembering the names of familiar people or places, find themselves repeating questions, or forget important information such as birthdays or anniversaries.
Difficulty planning and problem solving
Dementia often affects a person’s ability to make plans or handle complex tasks. For example, someone may have trouble following a recipe they’ve used for years or have trouble balancing their checkbook. Tasks that require concentration and logical thinking, like organizing a schedule or solving a puzzle, can become frustratingly difficult. As dementia progresses, even making basic decisions, such as choosing appropriate clothing for the weather, can become a challenge.
Confusion about time and place
People with dementia may become disoriented about dates, times, and places. They may not know what day it is or be confused about where they are, even in familiar settings. This disorientation can cause someone to forget how they got somewhere or how to get back home. Time perception may also be affected, leading to frustration or agitation when they believe an event should have happened sooner or later than it actually did.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Simple, everyday tasks that seem routine can become confusing or overwhelming for someone with dementia. This may include tasks such as cooking, operating household appliances, or driving to familiar locations. Over time, they may need assistance with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
Changes in mood and personality
Dementia can significantly affect a person’s mood and personality. They may become more withdrawn, anxious or depressed. In some cases, individuals may exhibit increased irritability, anger, or aggression. Personality changes may also occur; A previously calm person can easily become frustrated, or a once sociable person can become lethargic or disengaged. Changes in mood often coincide with feelings of confusion or frustration as individuals struggle to make sense of their surroundings and experiences.
Poor judgment
As dementia progresses, a person’s judgment and decision-making skills may worsen. They may make inappropriate choices, such as giving large amounts of money to strangers or neglecting personal hygiene. Their ability to assess risks and act appropriately is reduced, which can lead to potentially dangerous situations, such as wandering into unsafe areas or forgetting to turn off the stove.
Language and communication problems
Communication often becomes a challenge for people with dementia. They may have difficulty finding the right words to express their thoughts or follow a conversation. Over time, speaking coherent sentences may become difficult, and individuals may use words incorrectly or substitute words that do not make sense in context. This can make the conversation uncomfortable for both the person with dementia and their loved ones. Additionally, they may lose the ability to write or read as fluently as before.
Difficulty understanding visual and spatial relationships
Dementia can affect a person’s ability to interpret visual information, leading to problems with depth perception, contrast, or spatial orientation. This can make navigating the environment difficult, leading to frequent falls or accidents. Some people may have difficulty reading, judging distances, or distinguishing colors, which can make everyday tasks like driving especially dangerous.
Withdraw from social activities
As symptoms of dementia become more severe, individuals may begin to withdraw from hobbies, social activities, or work activities that they once enjoyed. They may find it more difficult to follow conversations or keep up with group activities, leading to frustration and isolation. Avoiding social interaction can also be due to embarrassment or fear of making mistakes in front of others.
Put the wrong item and can’t retrace the steps
People with dementia may frequently misplace objects or leave them in unusual places, such as leaving their wallet in the refrigerator or the remote control in a drawer. Over time, they may also lose the ability to retrace their steps and find lost objects. This can lead to paranoia, where they accuse others of stealing or hiding things they themselves have misplaced.
Motor skills and coordination are impaired
In some types of dementia, especially in the later stages, motor function and coordination may be affected. Tasks that require fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt or tying shoelaces, become difficult. As dementia progresses, some individuals may experience tremors, stiffness, or difficulty with balance and walking, increasing the risk of falls and injury.
Unexplained agitation or restlessness
Agitation and restlessness are common behavioral symptoms in people with dementia. They may pace back and forth, fidget, or exhibit repetitive behaviors such as tapping or rocking. This agitation often stems from feelings of anxiety, frustration, or confusion. Sometimes, these behaviors are triggered by changes in environment, routine, or unfamiliar surroundings.
Sleep disorders
Many people with dementia experience changes in their sleep patterns. They may have insomnia, wake up frequently at night, or become sleepy during the day. Sleep disorders can also include a phenomenon called “sundown,” in which confusion and agitation become worse in the late afternoon or evening. Disruption of this circadian rhythm can cause distress for both the individual and their caregivers.
Hallucinations and delusions
In more severe stages of dementia, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real) and delusions (strong false beliefs) may occur. For example, someone may believe that someone is trying to harm them or that they are living in a different time or place. These symptoms can cause discomfort to the individual and may lead to inappropriate or dangerous behavior. Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, cognition and behavior. Although the signs of dementia can overlap with normal aging, it is important to recognize when these symptoms go beyond the usual level of forgetfulness and begin to affect the brain. daily life. Caring for older people with dementia involves understanding their unique needs as their cognitive abilities decline. Effective care includes ensuring safety, emotional support, and maintaining a structured routine to reduce confusion. Memory loss, agitation, and behavioral changes can be challenging for caregivers, requiring patience and empathy. Specialized care for dementia often involves creating a quiet environment, promoting physical health, and providing activities that stimulate cognitive function. Support from expert organizations like ASLI or the Senior Citizens Association of India, a company founded in 2011 with the aim of improving the quality of life of the elderly, is essential to help the elderly. care manages dementia care needs effectively.
