As we age, changes in our cognitive abilities are natural. However, when these changes become more pronounced and start to interfere with daily life, they may be early signs of dementia. Recognizing these signs early can make a significant difference in managing the condition and maintaining a higher quality of life.
At The Legacy at Santa Fe, we prioritize the well-being of our residents, offering personalized care and support to those experiencing cognitive changes. If you’re concerned about a loved one, it’s important to understand what to look for and how to respond. Visit our memory care page to learn more about how we support individuals with dementia.
Memory Loss That Affects Daily Life
One of the most common early signs of dementia is memory loss, particularly forgetting recently learned information. While occasional forgetfulness is normal, persistent memory problems can be a red flag.
Individuals may start to rely more heavily on memory aids, such as notes or reminders, or frequently ask for the same information repeatedly. Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps to find them is another sign that memory issues might be more than just age-related forgetfulness.
Difficulty in Planning or Solving Problems
Older adults with early dementia may experience difficulty in developing and following a plan, such as cooking a familiar recipe or managing monthly bills. Tasks that once were second nature can become confusing, and they might struggle to concentrate. This difficulty can extend to solving simple problems, such as figuring out how to use a household appliance they’ve owned for years. If these challenges become frequent, it could indicate an underlying cognitive issue.
Confusion with Time or Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time is another early indicator of dementia. Individuals with dementia might forget where they are or how they got there. They may also become disoriented in familiar environments, struggling to recognize once-familiar places or people. This confusion can cause anxiety and lead to withdrawal from social activities, further exacerbating the cognitive decline.
Trouble Understanding Visual Images & Spatial Relationships
For some, vision problems can be an early sign of dementia. This includes difficulty reading, judging distances, or determining color or contrast. They may struggle to recognize familiar faces or objects, or have trouble navigating stairs or parking the car. These visual and spatial difficulties can make it dangerous for them to drive or move around independently, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.
New Problems with Speaking or Writing
Dementia can affect communication, leading to trouble following or joining a conversation. Individuals might stop in the middle of a conversation, not knowing how to continue, or repeat themselves. Finding the right word becomes increasingly difficult, and they may call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a “watch” a “hand clock”). These communication challenges can be frustrating for both the individual and their loved ones.
Misplacing Things & Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
Everyone misplaces items from time to time, but a person with dementia may do this frequently and then be unable to retrace their steps to find the items again. They might accuse others of stealing when they cannot find something they misplaced. This behavior may become more frequent as the condition progresses and can cause significant distress.
Decreased or Poor Judgment
Seniors with dementia may experience changes in judgment or decision-making abilities. This may include behaviors like giving large sums of money to telemarketers or paying less attention to personal grooming and cleanliness. Poor judgment can also manifest in more subtle ways, like dressing inappropriately for the weather or engaging in risky behaviors they would have previously avoided. This decline in judgment is often one of the more noticeable changes that prompts families to seek help.
Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities
As dementia progresses, individuals may begin to withdraw from social activities, hobbies, or projects that they once enjoyed. They might avoid being social because of the changes they’ve noticed in themselves, or they may have difficulty keeping up with their favorite pastimes. This withdrawal can lead to increased feelings of isolation and depression, further impacting their overall well-being.
Changes in Mood & Personality
Personality and mood changes are common in the early stages of dementia. Individuals may become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They might become easily upset at home, at work, or in situations where they are out of their comfort zone. These emotional shifts can be challenging for family members to navigate and often signal that something more serious is occurring.
Recognizing the Signs & Taking Action
Early detection of dementia can significantly impact the course of the condition. If you notice any of these signs in a loved one, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. At The Legacy at Santa Fe, we offer comprehensive care services tailored to the needs of individuals with dementia, helping them maintain a sense of purpose and dignity.
Understanding and recognizing the early signs of dementia allows for timely intervention, which can slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for your loved one. If you’re concerned about the cognitive health of someone close to you, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team to learn how our community can provide guidance and support.