Dementia: Clear Signs To Look Out For

Forgetting People, Locations, And Routines

Forgetting locations, landmarks, friends or family's houses are all common symptoms of dementia. There may also be difficulty using directions or following step-by-step instructions. Driving will be challenging and dangerous as it becomes easier to get lost and disoriented for those suffering from this dreadful disease. Forgetting the reason for being in a room or how one got there in the first place is another clear indicator of dementia as well.

The hardest part of dementia though, for the patient and their loved ones, is when they forget faces and names. Although it can be disheartening to deal with, loved ones should try to have patience and tolerance with their loved one if they forget their name or who they are, as they simply cannot help it. Try using old photographs or talking about past memories to see if it helps jog their memory. If it doesn't, assess the situation and try not to overwhelm them.

Repetition

Patients with dementia often forget why or when they did something, so they will do it over and over again. This can become dangerous, especially when it comes to taking too much medication or dealing with appliances, or anything of a nature that could harm them. Repeating or saying the same thing many times in a conversation is a classic sign of memory loss, which is associated with dementia. Eating breakfast twice, feeding a pet more than once, or washing hair multiple times in the shower are all classic signs of dementia as well. Look for these signs, and if you notice them in yourself or a loved one, visit an appropriate specialist for the right type of treatment and help.