As the holidays approach, many of us spend more time with our loved ones, gathering for meals, celebrations, and catching up on the year gone by. This quality time can also bring attention to changes in a family member's behavior, memory, or overall demeanor that may have gone unnoticed before. You might wonder, "Is this normal aging, or could it be something more concerning like dementia?" Recognizing the signs of dementia early is crucial for getting proper support and care. Here’s what to look out for and what steps you can take if you’re concerned.

Understanding the Early Signs of Dementia

Dementia is not a specific disease but a general term for a decline in cognitive function that affects daily life. While everyone experiences some memory lapses as they age, dementia involves more persistent and progressive changes. Here are some key signs to watch for:

Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life: Occasional forgetfulness, like misplacing keys, is normal. However, if your loved one frequently forgets important dates, events, or repeatedly asks for the same information, it could be an early sign of dementia. Another red flag is if they start relying heavily on notes, reminders, or other people to remember things they used to handle on their own.
Difficulty with Familiar Tasks: If your loved one struggles to complete routine tasks that they used to do effortlessly, like making a favorite recipe, managing finances, or remembering the rules of a familiar game, this could indicate cognitive decline.
Confusion with Time or Place: People with dementia may lose track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time. They might show confusion about where they are or how they got there, which can be particularly noticeable when traveling to new or crowded places during the holidays.
Poor Judgment and Decision-Making: Pay attention if your loved one begins showing uncharacteristically poor judgment, such as giving away large sums of money, neglecting personal hygiene, or making inappropriate comments. Impaired decision-making is a common sign of cognitive decline.
Changes in Mood and Personality: A sudden shift in mood, personality, or behavior can also indicate dementia. Look for signs of increased anxiety, depression, confusion, withdrawal from social activities, or a loss of interest in hobbies they once enjoyed.

What to Do If You Notice the Signs

If you notice any of these signs in your loved one, it’s important to approach the situation with sensitivity and care. Here’s what you can do:

Start a Conversation: Choose a calm, quiet time to express your concerns gently. Use "I" statements to avoid sounding accusatory, such as, "I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a bit forgetful lately. How have you been feeling?" This can open up a dialogue without making them feel defensive or embarrassed.
Encourage a Doctor’s Visit: Early diagnosis of dementia can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and planning for the future. Suggest a visit to their primary care doctor, who can conduct an initial assessment and, if necessary, refer them to a specialist for further evaluation. Offer to help schedule the appointment or accompany them for support.
Seek Support and Information: If your loved one is diagnosed with dementia, reach out to support groups, both local and online, for resources and guidance. Caregiver support organizations offer valuable information to help you understand what to expect and how to provide the best care.
Seek Professional Caregiving Assistance: When your loved one requires more help than you can provide, let our team at Homewatch CareGivers Silver Spring provide the care and support you need. A more affordable alternative to assisted living facilities or nursing homes, our Silver Spring in-home caregiving services provide your loved one with the care they need in the comfort of their home.

The holiday season is a time for joy and togetherness, but it can also reveal changes in our loved ones’ health that may require attention. Recognizing the early signs of dementia and taking proactive steps can help ensure that your family member gets the care and support they need. Remember, at Homewatch CareGivers of Silver Spring, we’re here to help you find the care and information your loved one needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the next steps in life.