Early Signs of Dementia You Shouldn’t Ignore in NW Calgary, AB
As our loved ones age, it’s natural to notice some changes in their memory, thinking, and behaviour. Forgetting where they placed their keys or occasionally mixing up names is often just part of growing older.
However, there comes a point when these slips might signal something more serious: early signs of dementia.
Recognizing these signs early can make a huge difference in preserving quality of life and planning for the future.
What you will learn:
- The difference between normal aging and early dementia, and why it matters.
- Key warning signs of early dementia that shouldn’t be overlooked.
- When to seek professional help for a loved one showing signs of cognitive decline.
- How compassionate in-home care can support seniors with dementia and provide peace of mind for families.
Table of Contents
Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia
Understanding what’s considered normal aging is crucial. Age-related memory changes often involve forgetfulness that doesn’t disrupt daily life. A senior might take longer to recall a word or forget why they walked into a room, but the information usually comes back. They’re still able to manage household tasks, keep appointments, and make sound decisions.
In contrast, dementia is a progressive condition that interferes with the ability to function independently. It affects memory, communication, reasoning, and judgment, eventually requiring full-time care.
7 Key Dementia Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Here are some key signs of early dementia that shouldn’t be brushed off:
- Frequent Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information and relying heavily on notes or others to remember things they used to manage on their own.
- Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to follow a recipe, balance a chequebook, or operate appliances they’ve used for years.
- Trouble Finding Words or Following Conversations: Difficulty expressing thoughts or understanding what others are saying, often pausing, repeating themselves, or struggling to name everyday objects.
- Poor Judgment or Decision-Making: Giving away large sums of money, neglecting hygiene, or dressing inappropriately for the weather.
- Confusion About Time or Place: Getting lost in familiar places, forgetting how they got somewhere, or becoming confused about the date or season.
- Changes in Mood or Personality: Unusual irritability, depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities.
- Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps: Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them again without help.
When to Seek Help
If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs in a loved one, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
Getting a professional evaluation early on can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and more effective management.
Early detection also allows for better planning, access to resources, and family involvement.
How In-Home Care Can Help Your Loved One
Caring for a loved one showing signs of dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging.
That’s where in-home care can make a meaningful difference.
Caregivers from Always Best Care of Calgary NW are trained to recognize the early symptoms of cognitive decline and keep families informed about changes. They can help with daily tasks, encourage mental stimulation, and provide much-needed companionship.
Most importantly, having a compassionate caregiver in the home gives families peace of mind. It ensures that your loved one is safe, supported, and able to maintain as much independence as possible.
FAQ
Q: What’s the difference between normal aging and early dementia?
A: Normal aging involves forgetfulness that doesn’t disrupt daily life, while early dementia affects memory, communication, and judgment, impacting daily functioning.
Q: How can I help a loved one with early signs of dementia?
A: Seek professional evaluation early, and consider in-home care for support with daily tasks and companionship.
Q: What are some common early signs of dementia?
A: Common signs include frequent memory loss, difficulty with familiar tasks, trouble finding words, poor judgment, confusion about time or place, changes in mood, and misplacing items.
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation at Always Best Care of Calgary NW!
If you’re concerned about memory changes in someone you care about, don’t wait to take action. Contact Always Best Care of Calgary NW at (403) 812-0778 for a care consultation. Our experienced team can help you understand your options and create a care plan tailored to your loved one’s unique needs. Early support matters—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.
