Caring for someone you love as they age can bring immense joy. However, it can also introduce complex challenges. It’s easy to miss the early signs of dementia, a serious neurodegenerative disorder. So if a loved one is living with cognitive changes, how can you help?
If your loved one is showing signs of dementia, you should start thinking about long-term care. Memory care, a special type of senior living, is an incredible way to help a loved one living with memory impairment.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is often referred to as a single disease. However, this isn’t quite the case. It’s not one condition—it’s a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect:
- Memory
- Thinking
- Personality
- Social ability
These all can interfere with a person’s everyday life. Dementia can range from mild forgetfulness to serious cognitive decline. This affects everybody a little differently.
Either way, the underlying cause is due to damage to brain cells. This damage stops cells from properly communicating with one another, which can create unusual side effects in the brain. It can even damage the physical structures of different parts of the brain. Over time, this damage becomes more severe, and the symptoms worsen.
The Types of Dementia
Not all dementia presents itself in the same way. The underlying damage to brain cells develops due to other conditions. This means that a person’s specific experience can vary depending on the type of dementia they’re experiencing.
Some common types of dementia include:
- Alzheimer’s disease. This is the most prevalent form and is characterized by gradually worsening memory loss and confusion.
- Vascular dementia. This is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke or other vascular issues.
- Lewy body dementia. This is linked to unusual protein deposits in brain cells, which leads to memory problems, hallucinations, and difficulty concentrating.
- Frontotemporal dementia. This affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, and eventually alters personality, emotions, and behavior.
Each type presents unique symptoms and progressions. However, they all eventually lead to the need for professional care.
Recognizing the Early Signs of Dementia
Dementia is complex. However, spotting the early signs is key! It helps you take proactive steps towards finding your loved one the care they deserve.
While occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, severe memory loss is not. Certain signs indicate cognitive decline beyond usual age-related changes:
- Frequent memory lapses, especially with recent events or conversations.
- Difficulty planning or solving simple problems.
- Confusion with time, place, or familiar environments.
- Struggles to follow conversations or find the right words.
- Misplacing belongings and unable to retrace steps to locate them.
- Significant changes in mood, behavior, or personality.
If you notice any of these signs, your loved one may be dealing with cognitive decline. So what can you do?
What Is Memory Care?
If your loved one is living with cognitive decline, memory impairment, or dementia, it’s time for a change. Fortunately, there’s an answer—memory care.
Memory care is a type of residential care. It’s specifically designed for older adults living with memory-related complications. This care is about providing an environment where your loved one can thrive.
In memory care, your loved one will be surrounded by a team of experienced and loving caregivers. This team is trained extensively in the unique complications dementia can cause. Meanwhile, there are plenty of structured activities and routines designed to make everyday life more comfortable.
From therapy and exercises to assistance with daily tasks, memory care takes an individual approach to care. It’s about meeting your loved one on their journey and preserving their dignity and safety. It’s an incredible way to help your loved one maintain their respect and quality of life.
How to Tell if It’s Time for Memory Care
Making the move to memory care isn’t about changing things for your loved one. It’s about providing them with an environment that understands the complex nature of their condition. Memory care is a wonderful choice, and it’s often key to preserving your loved one’s lifestyle.
So how can you tell if it’s time for memory care? Try to keep an eye out for the following signs:
- Increased difficulty with basic daily tasks
- Worsening forgetfulness and repetitive questioning
- Frequent wandering or getting lost, even in familiar places
- Growing safety concerns due to confusion or disorientation
- Noticeable weight loss or poor hygiene indicating neglect of personal care
- Escalating anxiety, agitation, or withdrawal from social activities
If these sound familiar, your loved one’s cognitive state could be interfering with their quality of life. If so, it’s time to consider memory care.
Find the Right Memory Care Community
Supporting a loved one with dementia can be emotional. However, through memory care, you can step in and help your loved one maintain their dignity and lifestyle. It’s a wonderful option that can truly support your loved one.
If you’re considering memory care, reach out to our community here at Woodbridge Place. We’re ready to step in and help your loved one. We know how complex dementia can be, and our team is here to help. Schedule a visit with our team today to learn more!
