It’s not unusual to experience a little forgetfulness — misplacing car keys, forgetting someone’s name — as we age. But if you start to notice more profound memory loss in yourself or a loved one, how do you know whether it’s memory changes related to aging or early signs of dementia? Let’s look at the forms of dementia, its signs and stages, and what to know about early memory loss support.
If you or a family member is experiencing signs of memory loss that resemble Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, you should consult your health care provider right away to discuss mild cognitive impairment support. However, it’s important to stay calm. There are many reasons your loved one could be experiencing memory loss or forgetfulness that may not be linked to dementia.
There are a few ways to recognize the difference between normal memory loss and memory issues that may require medical attention. If you’re unsure whether your family member’s forgetfulness is normal, consider the following signs to help inform next steps.
Keep in mind that as we age, it becomes increasingly difficult to take in, retain, and learn new information. You may want to use tools such as weekly pill organizers, calendars, automatic payments, and notebooks to write important things down.
If you notice symptoms and behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, contact your primary care physician and begin considering memory support for seniors. An early diagnosis allows you to access support earlier in the disease process. During your appointment, your physician will likely use a series of assessments to help determine a diagnosis.
Dementia is a progressive disease defined by three broad stages, each with distinct characteristics, and it can last for many years. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia does not automatically mean memory care is the only option. A Life Plan Community like Santa Marta offers a range of services, making it important to consider the whole person and all your loved one’s needs.
Symptoms may include slight memory lapses, difficulty planning or organizing, trouble concentrating, or challenges completing tasks at work. During this stage, individuals can often function independently, drive, and maintain social lives. Early-stage dementia typically lasts between two and four years. While additional care may not yet be needed, this is a good time to begin researching assisted living communities.
Often the longest stage, lasting between two and ten years, memory issues become more pronounced. Communication becomes more difficult, conversations may be hard to follow, and understanding others can be challenging. Mood and behavior changes are common. As independence declines, it becomes appropriate to consider assisted living, where support is available for activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.
Also known as advanced dementia, this stage typically lasts one to three years. Individuals usually require 24-hour supervised care. Communication is severely limited or absent, memory loss deepens, and recognizing family members may no longer be possible. Mobility declines, and extensive assistance is needed for daily activities, including eating and personal hygiene. In the final phase, individuals are often bedridden.
When someone you love is diagnosed with dementia, it affects the whole family. If you’re exploring dementia care options and want to learn more about Santa Marta’s innovative memory care, contact one of our senior living counselors today. We’ll show you how our evidence-based activities help create a whole-person program designed to empower and engage your loved one.
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