Dad has seemed more confused than usual lately. He misplaced his car keys, only to discover they were in the linen closet. He often starts a sentence and forgets what he was going to say. Sometimes, he doesn’t even remember your name. Could it be Alzheimer’s, or simply normal age-related forgetfulness?
How Can You Tell if It’s Alzheimer’s or Forgetfulness – or Something Else?
If you’re at all concerned about a loved one’s cognitive functioning, an evaluation by the doctor is always a good idea. In addition to Alzheimer’s disease, there are other health conditions and even medication side effects that closely resemble dementia.
Following are some of the key warning signs of Alzheimer’s, along with normal age-related changes, to help you better understand the differences.
Red Flags of Alzheimer’s:
- Confusion with daily tasks that were once easy to accomplish, such as getting lost enroute to a familiar destination, taking a shower and getting dressed, or playing a familiar game.
- Problem-solving difficulties and struggles with tasks that require multiple steps, such as paying bills or preparing a meal.
- Losing track of time and space, such as not remembering what month or season it is, where they are, or how they arrived at their current location.
- Poor judgment and decision-making, such as making extravagant purchases, giving away large sums of money, and refusing to change clothes or tend to personal hygiene needs.
- Personality changes, such as increased fearfulness, depression, anxiety, and suspiciousness, or any other behaviors or moods that are out of character for the person.
Typical Effects of Aging:
- Occasionally needing reminders or feeling the need to write down important dates and appointments so they aren’t forgotten.
- Making a mistake now and then when paying bills or preparing a meal.
- Momentarily forgetting what day of the week it is, but then remembering.
- Making a poor decision once in a while, such as splurging on an unnecessary item.
- Feeling upset or anxious about an unexpected change, within the realm of normal behaviors and mood.
Whatever the Cause – Home Care Can Help!
Whether an older adult has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another chronic health condition, or simply would like a little extra help at home to make life safer, more comfortable, or more enjoyable, a referred care provider from American, Advocate, or Whitsyms In-Home Care can help! Referred, experienced care professionals can work with you to customize in-home care services to the unique needs of each individual.
From specialized care for someone with dementia to companionship for enjoyable conversations and everything in between, referred caregivers improve quality of life in a variety of ways for the people they serve, and bring peace of mind to the families who love them.
Contact us to learn more about how a referred care provider can make a difference in the life of someone you love. Click the link to the location nearest you below:
- American In-Home Care – Serving North, Central, and West Coast of Florida
- Advocate In-Home Care – Serving Southeast and Southwest Florida
- Whitsyms In-Home Care – Serving Southeast and Southwest Florida
State of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661
