Senior Care
Dementia Elderly
Dementia refers to a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and social functioning, leading to difficulties in daily life. It is not a single condition but can result from various underlying medical or neurological causes.
Memory difficulties are often one of the early signs; however, memory loss alone does not necessarily indicate dementia, as it can occur due to several other factors. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, though other conditions may also contribute. Depending on the underlying cause, some symptoms associated with dementia may be partially or fully reversible when identified early.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dementia vary based on the cause and individual, but commonly include:
Cognitive changes
- Memory difficulties, often first noticed by family members
- Difficulty communicating or finding appropriate words
- Problems with visual and spatial abilities, such as getting lost in familiar places
- Challenges with reasoning, judgment, or problem-solving
- Difficulty performing complex or routine tasks
- Problems with planning and organizing
- Poor coordination and reduced control of movements
- Confusion and disorientation
Psychological and behavioral changes
- Changes in personality or behavior
- Low mood or loss of interest
- Anxiety or excessive worry
- Increased agitation or restlessness
- Behavior that appears inappropriate to the situation
- Suspiciousness or mistrust
- Seeing or experiencing things that are not present.
When to Seek Professional Help
Contact us if you or a loved one experiences persistent memory difficulties or other changes in thinking, behavior, or functioning. Early evaluation is important to identify the cause, as some conditions that present with dementia-like symptoms can be treated or managed effectively with timely care.