Early Signs of Memory Loss? Don’t Wait
Early signs of memory loss can be confusing and frightening. While some occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, the early signs of dementia are frequently overlooked until they become more serious. Recognizing the early warning signs and taking control of the situation early can ease fears and better prepare families and caregivers for the future. The tendency is to pull back and hide from others.
Take control early and talk with an expert.
Early Action Can Slow the Disease
Scientific evidence has shown that certain activities and therapeutic programs can slow the onset of dementia related diseases. Ignoring early warning signs only accelerates the eventual decline. It’s important to understand early on what options are available to you, your friends and family members who are concerned. Being prepared can reduce the fear and anxiety of the unknown. Take the first step and have a confidential conversation with a knowledgeable counselor before the situation becomes overwhelming.
Yes, I’d like to Talk With an Expert
Ten Early Warning Signs of Dementia
| Difficulty Holding a Conversation | Changes in Mood or Behavior – More Irritable |
| At a Loss for the Correct Word | Poor or Decreased Judgement |
| Memory Loss that Gets in the Way of Daily Living | Confusion about Locations, Time, or Date/Year |
| Difficulty Managing Finances | Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks |
| Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks | Less Interested in Typical Social or Work Activities |
Frequently Asked Questions
How is dementia diagnosed? How is it treated?
Dementia is diagnosed through an assessment to see if there is a decline in cognitive ability and activities of daily living affecting the ability to be independent. A doctor will start with cognitive testing and interviews with the family. Your provider can discuss medications and treatments that may slow the onset of the disease.
Is there a benefit to early diagnosis?
Early diagnosis of any disease can help you prepare and understand your options. Information is power. Learning about community support early in the diagnosis can help you find the right place for your loved one to receive care and caregivers to explore respite options such as in-home care. Support can include professionally facilitated caregiver support groups where peers can discuss shared concerns. Respite and care may also include adult day programs where therapeutic programming, nutritious meals, and social activities are specifically designed to slow the progression of cognitive decline. Speaking with an expert can help locate support.
Are there ways to slow the onset of Dementia?
Although there are no cures to reverse the advance of dementia there are ways to slow the development of the disease. A healthy diet with moderate exercise and healthy lifestyle practices is proven to be beneficial for a wide range of degenerative conditions including dementia. Exercising your brain is also beneficial. As the old saying goes… “Use it or lose it”. Mentally stimulating activities like solving puzzles, drawing a picture, or listening to music all help maintain vital cognitive functions.
How important is it to maintain social activity and avoid isolation?
Often old social acquaintances will lose touch with someone with dementia which can place a greater burden on the caregiver and contribute to isolation. Isolation is especially damaging as it leads to diminished social and communication skills. Maintaining social relationships and making new friends while engaging in stimulating activities is an important part of slowing the advancement of the disease. Playing cornhole with a new friend or learning a new skill like archery or painting is much better than sitting alone in front of the TV.
Where can I meet others who have more experience as caregivers or may have information to share?
Online forums can be helpful as a first step in seeking information from experienced caregivers. In-person support groups such as the Mount Washington Valley Adult Day Center Support Group that meets Tuesdays at 1PM at 987 East Main Street Center Conway, NH are intimate and confidential settings that bring together caregivers with a wide range of experience. All are welcome to attend.
I need help caring for my loved one. What will it cost?
Family and friends can sometimes assist someone with early signs of dementia. Often, as the disease advances, the caregiving demands become much greater and likely exceed the ability of a solo caregiver. In-home assistance can range from around $25 to 35/hour depending on the level of care while community-based adult day services cost approximately $16-20/hour. There are also sources of funding to cover the cost of limited care. Talk with a resource expert for more information.
Connect with a resource expert at the MWVADC for information.
I have noticed that my thoughts seem slowed, and I have problems with things like concentrating, making decisions, following directions, planning, and organizing. Should I be concerned?
As we grow older, our brain changes, and we don’t remember as well as we used to. Occasional misplacement of items, or forgetting to do a routine task, such as paying a bill, is normal and is considered mild forgetfulness. Memory problems can also be caused by stress, fatigue, and lack of sleep, or even some medications. If you
Ask the same question over and over
Get lost in familiar places (like going to the grocery store)
Get confused about people, places, or time
Have trouble following directions or cooking recipes
These might be signs that you should talk openly with your Primary Care Provider.
