All of us lose our keys or mislay our phone from time to time. As the years go by it may happen a little more often, such as a few missed appointments or occasionally blanking a name. These small instances of memory loss are a normal part of the aging process. However, sometimes these instances and other symptoms can add up to something much more serious. If you or a loved one are experiencing memory loss, it is important to understand the signs and symptoms of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. These are progressive, irreversible brain disorders that require specialized treatment, care, and emotional support.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term for the loss of memory and cognition severe enough to interfere with a person’s daily life and activities. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, and according to the Alzheimer’s Association accounts for 60-80% of all dementia cases. This disease and other forms of dementia are progressive, meaning the symptoms worsen over time.
What are the Symptoms?
The first warning sign of Alzheimer’s is the inability to remember new information. This can mean missing due dates or appointments, and not coming to the realization later as in normal memory loss. People who have Alzheimer's may begin to make poor decisions, repeat questions, or misplace items in odd areas. These cognitive changes can over time become apparent to the person, and whether they are aware of the significance, will lose spontaneity, stop participating in activities, and will withdraw from friends and loved ones. In late-stage Alzheimer's those affected tend to have mood and personality changes, and can even become paranoid or aggressive.
Getting Checked and Diagnosis
There is no one definitive test for Alzheimer's or dementia; instead physicians use several different diagnostic tools to determine whether or not a patient is suffering from this type of disease. Medical professionals use a combination of physical, neurological, cognitive, and behavioral benchmarks to formally diagnose their patients, including brain scans and lab tests. It is important to get checked early for any symptoms you or a loved one are experiencing. Early diagnosis allows for more opportunities for treatment, the potential to participate in clinical trials, and take preventative steps like quitting smoking and controlling blood pressure, which can help preserve cognitive abilities.
Next Steps
If you or a loved one receives a dementia or Alzheimer's diagnosis, you can start thinking about ways to improve your quality of life. It can be a relief in itself to understand the root of the symptoms or issues you are experiencing. Being proactive can make the dementia journey much easier for individuals and families.
It is important to prioritize your emotional well-being and maintain social connections after a diagnosis. There are many support groups dedicated to dementia, whether they are for the person with the disease or the caregiver. These social settings lend a platform to openly discuss the symptoms, stress, and sadness that often accompany this disease.
Finally, it is important to understand the steps and progression of the disorder. Talk as a family about how the person with dementia will be cared for at each stage. Understand all the symptoms associated, and make educated decisions based on your family dynamics and financial readiness. Many families care for their loved ones until the late stages of the disease, when around-the-clock care needed is not feasible. Memory care communities are often the best choice and can provide comprehensive, 24/7 care to loved ones with dementia.
Small moments of memory loss can be just another part of getting older, however, understanding if it is a more serious condition is key. Learn the symptoms of dementia and get tested if you suspect there is something more, and get the help you and your family need to navigate the dementia journey.