VWB Blog Did you know that 55 million people have dementia?
There’s nothing more worrying than finding out that a loved one has dementia. Dementia changes the way someone thinks, behaves, and communicates. Yet, if left untreated, it can affect their performance at work and in their personal life.
If the thought of someone you care about contracting this disease scares you, keep reading. Here are the signs that your loved one needs professional dementia care.
1. Mood Swings
Mood swings are a sign that your loved one needs professional dementia care. When your loved one experiences a shift in mood within a short time, changes in behavior, agitation, or even frequent outbursts of anger, it’s essential to consult with a doctor who can assess the situation and provide the appropriate referrals and assistance.
A qualified professional can provide medication or other treatments if necessary. They can advise how to best care for your loved one and support them through this challenging diagnosis.
2. Memory Lapses
Anyone dealing with memory lapses will need extra memory care that can be provided by professional dementia care. People coping with memory lapses may often experience confusion, difficulty finding the right words, retelling recent events, recalling long-term memories, and repeating tasks or questions.
Communication skills may also become impaired, as well as judgment and the ability to make decisions. It is essential to take note of any changes that occur as your loved one’s memory fails.
3. Difficulty With Walking
If your loved one has difficulty walking, this could indicate that they need professional dementia care. Signs that a person needs help include if they have trouble standing or walking without support, such as needing assistance getting out of bed or balancing.
Other signs are tripping, stumbling, freezing while walking, or taking unusually long strides. Problems with gait could also mean that they have trouble coordinating muscle movements.
4. Poor Hygiene
When a loved one who was once able to handle their daily hygiene needs begins to struggle, it is time to seek professional help. They may forget routine practices like brushing teeth, bathing, and changing clothes. Or they may show signs of grooming themselves inappropriately, such as suddenly wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, despite the weather.
When this occurs, it is essential to contact elderly care and suggest a professional caregiver help them with their basic hygiene routine. They know the different types of dementia and the best solution for it.
5. Frequent Falls
Frequent falls can perplex caregivers, especially those looking after a loved one with dementia. If your loved one experiences frequent falls, it might signal that they need professional dementia care.
Several risk factors lead to falls, such as balance problems, poor vision, weakness due to lack of exercise, and side effects of medications. When dementia is a factor, identifying and addressing these risks can be difficult. Professional dementia care can help assess the fall risk and create an individualized plan to ensure safety.
Having the Proper Dementia Care
It is essential to be aware of the signs of dementia in your loved one. If you are noticing any of the symptoms listed, professional dementia care may be necessary. Contact your local dementia organization to find out how they can support you and your loved one.
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