The Key Signs of Memory Loss

As a person ages, it is natural for their memory to fail to be as sharp as it once was. However, when this memory loss starts to impede daily functioning it may be the sign of a condition such as dementia. According to dementia care professionals, some of the major signs that your senior’s memory loss is no longer part of the normal aging process include:

It disrupts their daily life

If your senior forgets important dates or consistently asks the same questions over and over, they may be dealing with the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia. If they must get help from others doing tasks they once accomplished on their own, this can also be a warning sign of a memory-related condition.

Issues with problem solving

According to Alzheimer’s care professionals, if your elderly loved one has problems following a recipe or keeping track of their monthly bills, they may be experiencing early signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Problems attending to daily chores or frequent tasks

Those who are facing Alzheimer’s often have issues driving to a frequently visited spot, remembering the rules of a favorite game, or recalling how to use common household appliances like the microwave or toaster.

Trouble with time and place

When it comes to dementia care, Cedar Valley professionals explain that many patients struggle with understanding time or place. They may forget where they are or fail to remember how they got there. Additionally, they may have issues understanding something if it is not happening in the present moment, and may lose track of the passage of time altogether.

Struggles with language

A person who is dealing with a memory-related condition may have difficulty conversing with others. They will lose their train of thought in the middle of a sentence and be unable to continue. They will repeat themselves without realizing it, or call common objects by the wrong name. They may also have issues recalling the names of close friends or family members.

Keep in mind that some degree of memory loss is a normal part of the aging process. If a person sometimes forgets the day of the week or a person’s name, there is nothing to panic about. However, if this behavior becomes consistent or disruptive, it is time to consult with a medical professional.