When it comes to cognitive decline, the terms “Alzheimer’s disease” and “dementia” are often used interchangeably. However, it is crucial to understand that dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect cognitive ability, whereas Alzheimer’s disease is one specific form of dementia that affects a significant percentage of seniors. Regardless of the form of dementia, those affected will experience a gradual decline in cognitive ability that often starts with mild symptoms like occasional lapses in short-term memory. Over time, being aware of their surroundings and the people around them becomes more challenging. Educating ourselves about these differences is essential, as early diagnosis of any form of dementia can improve the quality of life for both the individual and their loved ones.
Identifying symptoms early on can make a significant difference in your loved ones’ treatment and quality of life. If your seniors are dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia, seeking help from the onset of symptoms is crucial for comfortable management. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can vary from person to person, and they typically worsen over time.
Here are some common symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia:
- Memory loss: One of the earliest signs is difficulty remembering new information, such as recent conversations, appointments, or events. Individuals may also have trouble recalling previously learned information.
- Confusion and disorientation: People with Alzheimer’s or dementia may become disoriented in familiar places, lose track of time, and struggle to find their way even in familiar surroundings.
- Difficulty with problem-solving and complex tasks: Individuals may experience challenges with planning and organizing, solving problems, or following instructions, especially if they involve multiple steps.
- Language and communication problems: People with Alzheimer’s or dementia may have difficulty finding the right words to express themselves, may repeat phrases, or struggle to follow and participate in conversations.
- Poor judgment and decision-making: They may exhibit poor judgment in financial matters, neglect personal hygiene, or make questionable decisions.
- Changes in mood and personality: Individuals may experience changes in mood, such as increased irritability, anxiety, depression, or mood swings. Personality changes may also occur, leading to behaviors like aggression, apathy, or social withdrawal.
- Loss of initiative: Individuals may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, have a reduced motivation to engage in hobbies or social interactions, and may exhibit a lack of initiative in initiating tasks or projects.
- Misplacing items: People with Alzheimer’s or dementia may frequently misplace objects and struggle to retrace their steps to find them.
- Challenges with visual perception: They may have difficulty judging distances, reading, or interpreting images and spatial relationships.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also occur due to other medical conditions, so a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Home Care
When caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia at home becomes challenging or requires additional support, Assisting Hands is here to provide assistance. These services can help enhance the individual’s quality of life and provide respite for family caregivers.
Assisting Hands’ dementia caregivers possess expertise in addressing the common symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. We prioritize the safety and comfort of those we care for by intervening when wandering behavior emerges, ensuring their well-being. Additionally, we employ positive reinforcement techniques to help manage agitation and mood swings.
Our caregivers can also provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, meal preparation, medication reminders, and companionship. They can also offer supervision to ensure the individual’s safety and well-being.
Additionally, Assisting Hands’ respite care services provide temporary relief for family caregivers by arranging for trained caregivers to take over caregiving responsibilities for a specific period. This allows caregivers to take breaks, attend to personal needs, or handle other responsibilities while ensuring the person with Alzheimer’s or dementia is still well cared for.
