There Is More To Dementia Than Memory Loss

According to the CDC, dementia is a broad term for memory loss that accompanies cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's and other dementia diseases. This brain disorder gradually damages memory, thinking skills, and the capacity to do the most basic tasks. Cognitive decline (dementia) changes the brain's physiology interfering with brain function. Since the brain governs every bodily function, memory loss is just one symptom of dementia. There are also many other symptoms that indicate that your loved one is suffering from dementia other than memory loss and needs assistance from Columbus Senior Care professionals.

 

Difficulty Communicating

At some point, a person with a dementia disorder will have difficulty expressing themself verbally. The inability to put thoughts into words will manifest as difficulty finding the right words and substituting the names of similar objects, like asking for a pencil when a pen is wanted. People with dementia substitute a descriptive phrase for an elusive term. For example, in place of the word car, they might say, "The thing you drive." Also, a senior in cognitive decline may speak in gibberish or put words in the wrong order.

Impaired Mobility

 

Difficulty walking stemming from dementia is called Parkinsonism. Derived from the name of the dementia disease, Parkinson's, a shuffling or hesitant gait characterizes Parkinsonism. As a symptom, Parkinsonism is not unique to its namesake condition; it is also a sign of Alzheimer's disease. Another effect of neurocognitive disorders (dementia) is ataraxia. Ataraxia makes it hard to maintain balance and move with coordination when walking.

 

Inability to Concentrate

What appears to be restlessness in someone in cognitive decline is probably caused by losing concentration. Neurocognitive disorders render it impossible to stay focused on a task. As a side effect, difficulty paying attention impedes memory and learning. In addition, too much stimulation from crowds, activity, and noise ascorbate reduced concentration.

 

Poor Judgment

Dementia disrupts the ability to assess a situation, conceive an appropriate response, and weigh the consequences of a decision. Cognitive decline renders a person incapable of making decisions concerning their health and welfare.

• Dressing
• Grooming
• Finances
• Hygiene

Being a safe driver involves making the correct choice in a split second. A loved one who has lost their judgment to dementia cannot be behind the wheel.

 

Personality Changes

A common personality alteration brought on by dementia is a shy and retiring person losing their shyness. Researchers have observed five potential personality changes triggered by cognition disorders. Neuroticism presents as anger, mental instability, and depression. People with dementia have suddenly become uncharacteristically meticulous in performing tasks. Some people with a neurocognitive disorder tend to be agreeable to everything.

 

Indifference

A senior losing interest in things they were once passionate about is a dementia earmark. The indifference of someone experiencing cognitive decline sometimes extends to their welfare. This aspect of dementia warrants immediate medical attention because it is a potential indicator that neurocognitive disease is progressing unusually fast.

 

Confusion

Confusion in a senior shouldn't be ignored or dismissed as a part of aging. Frequent disorientation is an early sign of dementia that requires a doctor's visit.

 

If you notice these symptoms in your loved one, it means they are suffering from this disease.

As there is no cure for dementia, you can help your loved one live a better life by taking care of them and being there for them or hiring Elder Care Columbus professionals.