When most people think about Alzheimer's disease, the first thing that comes to mind is memory loss. You likely think about an elderly adult who has difficulty remembering people, can't recognize friends or family, can't keep up with their medications, or gets lost. While these are definitely issues that can come along with Alzheimer's disease, as a family caregiver it is important for you to understand that memory loss is not always the first sign of Alzheimer's, and your parent might show other signs early in the progression that may indicate that it is time to get them evaluated by their doctor. As with many other health issues and concerns, early detection is key to getting your parent on the course of care and management that is right for them and giving them the highest quality of life possible as they progress.
According to experts, those caring for elderly adults should not necessarily be looking for signs of memory loss when thinking about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Instead, they should be considering more subtle signs, such as changes in their personality or general mood.
Some such signs to look out for include:
- No longer wanting to spend time with family
- Withdrawing from social activities such as spending time with friends or going to clubs or gatherings
- No longer wanting to participate in activities that they have previously enjoyed
- Lashing out at friends and family for minor issues
- Acting out when in public
- Saying inappropriate things in public
- Behaving in ways that seem "off" or "not like" you are familiar with your parent being
- Aggressiveness or defensiveness
- Using language that they have not previously used or that is outside of their usual character
- Behaving in socially inappropriate ways
- Becoming sad or temperamental more often
Starting senior care for your aging parent can be one of the best decisions that you can make for them during the course of your care journey. Having a senior home care services provider in the home with your aging parent can ensure that they have ongoing access to the care, support, and assistance that they need to manage their individual needs, challenges, and limitations in the ways that are right for them while also respecting the care that you give them on a regular basis. This means that your parent can stay healthy, safe, comfortable, and happy while also pursuing a lifestyle that is as active, engaged, and independent as possible throughout their later years. As their family caregiver this will give you confidence and peace of mind that your senior will get everything that they need both when you are with them and when you are not.
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Leslie, MI, please contact the caring staff at Seniors Helping Seniors of Lansing. Call today: 517-332-9953.