There’s something wonderful about the holidays: Friends and family get together to enjoy a tasty feast, surrounded by holiday decorations and accompanied by festivities and excitement. Although, There are some key factors to lookout for in your senior loved ones over the holidays.
Why The Holidays Are Important to Look For Dementia Symptoms
During the holidays we might be seeing relatives that we haven’t seen since last year. For older adults, a lot can change in a year, so it’s important to recognize signs that our loved ones may be experiencing Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60% to 80% of cases.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, every 65 seconds someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer’s, and 1-in-3 seniors die with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Yet, only 16% of seniors receive regular cognitive assessments during routine health check-ups.
Top 9 Dementia Warning Signs
What signs to look out for this holiday season that may be cause for concern:
1. Changes in Physical Appearance
Their grooming or general appearance may decline. Those with dementia tend to become less concerned about being clean and presentable.
2. Untidiness Around the Home
The house may be more cluttered or disorganized. Food in the pantry or refrigerator may be spoiled or outdated.
3. Unable to do Everyday Tasks
They may find it difficult to complete routine tasks such as changing the TV station, making a cup of tea or getting dressed.
4. Difference in Mood
You may notice mood swings or a change in personality. They may be more irritable, depressed, fearful, anxious, suspicious or may even act inappropriately.
5. Unable to do Everyday Tasks
They may find it difficult to complete routine tasks such as changing the TV station, making a cup of tea or getting dressed.
6. Difference in Mood
You may notice mood swings or a change in personality. They may be more irritable, depressed, fearful, anxious, suspicious or may even act inappropriately.
7. Speaking Differently
They may give vague answers to questions or you may observe hesitant or halted speech. They may also have trouble coming up with words or names of objects or people.
8. Altered Perception
They may have difficulty finding their way to a familiar place or feel confused about where they are. They may also find it hard to understand events in the past or future.
9. Anti-social
They may become uninterested in socializing with other people. They can become withdrawn or not want to engage in conversation or activities.
It’s important to recognize signs of cognitive decline in our loved ones. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia at this time, treatment can ease the symptoms to improve one’s quality of life.
