You may have started to notice certain symptoms of dementia in your senior parent that scare you, even if they were recently diagnosed. One of the first things you will learn about dementia is that there are seven stages, but they can vary in severity depending on each person. The most important thing you can do when your parent or loved one is diagnosed with dementia is keep positive and continue to learn about the disease that affects them.
During the first few stages you may only notice subtle differences and around stage four is usually when a person will get diagnosed. Before this stage you may notice slight mood differences, routine changes, and behavior changes. Home care can help monitor changes and if a senior wishes to age in place, it will be essential for them to have someone at home with them.
One of the biggest things to take note of is that dementia can affect mood. Handling mood swings may be new for you and that is something else a home care provider can help with. Before you choose someone to work closely with your parents it is okay to ask if they have had any experience with patients and dementia. This can help reassure you that this is the best choice for your parents.
Symptoms of Dementia
When a senior gets diagnosed with dementia one of the major symptoms that may scare you is personality changes. They can start acting differently or saying things they would never have used to say. This can make things uncomfortable for you and a home care provider can be the buffer you need until you learn how to cope with the changes. Other symptoms of dementia may also be alarming.
Memory Problems
A senior may not remember where they just placed their coffee or teacup, or put their keys when they come home. Some may even forget names of the people they know and love. Home care can help keep track of smaller things, or remind them of things, and keep a senior on a normal routine that may help them live healthier lives.
Communication Problems
Some seniors may forget words and it can be hard to communicate their needs with others. This may happen in later stages of dementia. Some seniors will be able to talk but forget simple words which can cause them to become irritated or irrational. This can be one of the mood changes you may not be used to.
Easily Getting Lost
If they are not properly monitored a senior with dementia can get lost. They may not remember where they parked, where they’re going, and they can wander off. It will be important for home care to be there and help the seniors get to and from places.
Trouble With Tasks
Although you may find certain tasks like meal prepping to be easy this can be a challenge for seniors with dementia. It will be important to not get frustrated with a senior and have home care in place to help cook for them. Simple things can frustrate and anger someone with dementia.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/types-dementia#091e9c5e80008c55-2-6
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING HIRING HOME CARE IN SAN JOSE, CA, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT HOME HELPERS TODAY (408) 317-4969.
