The holiday season brings families together with laughter and good times. However, the extra time spent with loved ones may result in seeing changes in them that can be unsettling. We frequently receive phone calls starting with, “I was visiting my parents for the holidays and….” Memory issues and trouble finding words do increase with age. But what is truly worrisome behavior? Here are some thoughts on distinguishing between normal signs of aging and potential early symptoms of dementia.

Normal Aging vs. Possible Dementia Indicators:

Occasional forgetfulness: It's normal to occasionally misplace keys or forget appointments. However, frequent forgetfulness, especially of recent events or important information, may warrant further investigation.
Challenges with familiar tasks: Occasionally needing help with technology is normal. But struggling with routine tasks like cooking or using appliances might be cause for concern.

In other words, losing your keys is normal. Not knowing what the keys are for and how to use them, may be a problem.

Difficulty with word recall: Having occasional "tip-of-the-tongue" moments is common. However, struggling to follow conversations or frequently substituting words inappropriately could be a concern.
Changes in mood or personality: Everyone has off days, but significant shifts in personality, increased irritability, or apparent apathy could indicate an underlying issue.
Decreased interest in hobbies: As people age, their interests may evolve. However, a sudden disinterest in previously enjoyed activities or social withdrawal could be a warning sign.
Confusion about time or place: Sometimes losing track of the day is common. After all, after retirement there isn’t much difference between days or between weekdays and weekends. But not being able to understand the passage of time or future events could signal a problem. Frequent disorientation or getting lost in familiar places may also be problematic.

How to Observe and Identify Potential Trouble Behaviors:

Engage in conversations: Pay attention to their ability to follow conversations, recall recent events, and express themselves clearly.
Observe daily tasks: Notice if they have difficulty with routine activities like meal preparation, managing medications, or handling finances. This includes not just forgetting a step, but being able to complete the process once a mistake is made.
Note changes in behavior: Be mindful of any significant shifts in their mood, personality, or social interaction.

Hearing and Dementia

There are two important connections between hearing loss and dementia.

Hearing loss and dementia can also be confused with one another, as they share some similar symptoms. Difficulty following conversations, asking for things to be repeated, and seeming withdrawn or confused can be indicative of either condition. This overlap can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.

There are also theories that propose that hearing loss may contribute to cognitive decline. The strain of trying to hear and understand conversations may divert resources from other cognitive functions like memory and thinking. Hearing loss may also increase social isolation and reduce mental stimulation, both of which are risk factors for dementia. Finally, some studies suggest that hearing loss may cause structural changes in the brain, accelerating the atrophy of certain regions associated with cognitive function.

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it's crucial to seek professional evaluation from both an audiologist and a physician to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care.

Important Considerations:

Early detection matters: If you notice potential signs of dementia, encourage your parents to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Early diagnosis allows for better management and support.
Be supportive and understanding: Receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be challenging. Offer your love, support, and understanding throughout the process.
Seek resources and information: There are many organizations that provide resources and support for individuals and families in the Greater New Haven and Shoreline area. The first stop for many is the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. https://www.alz.org/ct. Most town senior centers also provide programs for those living with dementia and their families.

Please use Homewatch CareGivers of New Haven and Guilford as a resource. We have contact with many types of professionals that can assist you. We are here to support you anyway we can.