Early Signs of Dementia You Shouldn’t Ignore

As we age, it’s normal to experience some memory lapses or forgetfulness. 

But how do you know when these slips are more than just a part of growing older? 

Early signs of dementia can be subtle, yet recognizing them is crucial for getting help early and maintaining a good quality of life. 

We at Always Best Care of Edmonton are here to guide you through the process of identifying these signs and finding the right support.

What you will learn:

• How to tell the difference between normal age-related forgetfulness and the early signs of dementia that may impact daily life and independence.
• The most common early symptoms of dementia.
• The importance of early detection and seeking professional help for accurate diagnosis, effective planning, and access to supportive resources for your loved one.
• How compassionate in-home care from Always Best Care of Edmonton can provide daily support, mental stimulation, and peace of mind for families facing dementia challenges.

Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia

It’s essential to understand what’s considered normal for aging and what might signal something more serious. Age-related memory changes usually don’t disrupt daily life. For instance, a senior might take a bit longer to recall a word or forget why they entered a room, but the information typically comes back. They can still manage household tasks, keep appointments, and make sound decisions.

On the other hand, dementia is a progressive condition that interferes with independent functioning. It affects memory, communication, reasoning, and judgment, eventually requiring full-time care. 

7 Key Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Here are some key signs that might indicate early dementia:

1. 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.
   
2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to follow a recipe, balance a checkbook, or operate appliances they’ve used for years.
   
3. Trouble Finding Words or Following Conversations: Difficulty expressing thoughts or understanding others, often pausing, repeating themselves, or struggling to name everyday objects.
   
4. Poor Judgment or Decision-Making: Giving away large sums of money, neglecting hygiene, or dressing inappropriately for the weather.
   
5. Confusion About Time or Place: Getting lost in familiar places, forgetting how they got somewhere, or becoming confused about the date or season.
   
6. Changes in Mood or Personality: Unusual irritability, depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities.
   
7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps: Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them again without help.

How In-Home Care Can Help

Caring for a loved one showing signs of dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging. 

That’s where in-home support from Always Best Care of Edmonton can make a meaningful difference. Our caregivers are trained to recognize 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.

Having a compassionate caregiver in the home gives families peace of mind, ensuring 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 memory changes that don’t disrupt daily life, while early dementia affects memory, communication, and judgment, impacting independence.

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: Why is early detection important?
A: Early detection allows for more accurate diagnosis, better planning, and access to resources and family involvement.

Schedule Your Free Care Consultation With Always Best Care of Edmonton!

If you’re concerned about memory changes in someone you care about, don’t wait to take action. Contact Always Best Care of Edmonton at (587) 407-1366 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.