Reliable Home Care in Grand Rapids – West Michigan

Warning Signs of Dementia

The Alzheimer's Association has developed the following ten warning signs of dementia:

1. Memory loss.  This involves forgetting recently learned information and is one of the common early signs of dementia e.g. forgetting when an appointment is scheduled despite repeated reminders.

2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks -losing track of the steps involved in making a meal or playing a game.

3. Problems with language - forgetting simple words and substituting other words, such as

forgetting what a comb is called and referring to it as "that thing you use on your hair".

4. Disorientation to time and place - getting lost driving even to familiar places 

5. Poor judgment -dressing inappropriately or mismanaging money in ways they never did before 

6. Problems with abstract thinking - difficulty performing complex tasks like bill-paying

and balancing the checkbook.

7. Misplacing things. - Aside from forgetting where the keys are located, household items may be placed in unusual places, such as a bottle of salad dressing placed next to the bathroom sink.

8. Changes in mood or behavior. - Persons with Alzheimer's disease may experience rapid mood swings.

9. Changes in personality. - Persons with dementia may show changes in personality.  They may become nervous, fearful, suspicious, or easily confused.  They may show more dependency on others for daily decision-making.

10. Loss of initiative. - Some forms of dementia may cause a person to become very passive, or to lose interest in normal social activities.  They may sleep more than usual.

If you or a loved one is experiencing signs of a memory problem get a medical evaluation by someone knowledgeable about dementia.  Please call AngelCare Home Care and speak with one of our In-Take Specialists. Let AngelCare help you evaluate options, resources and solutions.

When your loved one needs care. . . Call an Angel at AngelCare Home Care 616-245-8899