Memory loss is affecting millions everyday and you’re not alone if your parent is facing this as well. It’s difficult to know whether memory loss is due to the natural part of aging or cause by a cognitive disease, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Find out how to discover if they are hiding a cognitive disease and where to get help.
It can be scary watching your loved one’s cognitive function being taken over by Alzheimer’s or dementia. A person’s identity and personality begin can be lost and it becomes hard to recognize the person you once knew. Denial of the symptoms are common because no one wants to admit to losing themselves to this heartbreaking disease.
How can Someone Hide Dementia
The first signs of dementia can be faint, such as not being able to remember certain words or forgetting to pay the electricity. If the memory loss continues it should be taken more seriously and not be passed off as a “senior moment”. Getting treatment early on can help in slowing down the progression of dementia.
Lack of Participation
If they begin to not want to take part in activities they onced loved it can signify an issue. This can be anything from not wanting to play a simple game or partake in their favorite activity. It can be due to not remembering how to do the activity that they used to know.
Hiding Problems
Spouses may not want to admit that there’s a problem by covering for their partner. This can be done by completing tasks for them or finishing their sentences. Take notice if your loved one begins to have trouble driving or interacting with friends.
Refuse to Believe there’s an Issue
If your loved one doesn’t want to admit that there’s a problem, it can signify denial. Making up excuses for being forgetful and tired can be a way of convincing themselves that everything is fine. In reality this can show that everything isn’t okay and may need a form of treatment or a supported living arrangement.
Secret Symptoms
One of the most important things to a senior is being able to stay independent. This will cause them to hide things that put them at risk for being put into a home. Those with a high level of intelligence and education can cover up and deny having dementia longer than others. Although no two people are the same, keep a lookout for sign of deterioration.
Can your Loved One Function Properly
Having troubles with everyday tasks and responsibilities are signs that you need to notice. Start by addressing the problems and trying to figure out what causes them.
This can be done by visiting a neurologist that can figure out which behaviors are being caused by what. It can be a variety of things from dehydration, infection, medication, or even a stroke. By seeing a specialist you can find out the reasons for memory problems and find out treatment methods. It’s important to prepare for what’s to come, so you can be ready for the next steps.
Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas
Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.
We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.