If you can recognize Alzheimer’s disease or dementia early on in your loved one, you can get them started on memory care and treatment. This is essential in slowing the progress of the damage and giving the patient a better quality of life. Look out for each of the common early warning signs below.

Important Indicators of Dementia in the Elderly

1. Short-Term Memory Loss

People tend to get forgetful as they get older, but this should only happen occasionally, and the memory issue should be temporary. If your loved one is having trouble remembering recently learned information, such as people’s names or their scheduled appointments, they may have dementia. They’ll forget the information permanently and may then ask for the same information repeatedly.

2. Struggling With Finances

It’s typical for seniors to forget to make a bill payment or have small errors when doing math. They should still be able to handle their budget and bills, though. Red flags occur when your loved one starts spending an unusual amount of money, never pays their bills, or can’t follow the measurements in a recipe. In addition to their memory care, you may want to talk with a lawyer about taking control of their finances to protect their future.

3. Forgetting How to Do Familiar Tasks

A typical senior may have trouble mastering new tasks or will need help with more complicated work. If they are forgetting how to do simple and familiar tasks – such as turning off the oven or preparing a cup of tea – it could be early onset dementia. Have them take a Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam online to test their abilities.

4. Misplacing Items

Seniors often lose items but should be able to find them again in most cases. Early Alzheimer’s patients often misplace items (putting them away in the wrong spot) or forget where the right spot is for something when they look for it. You may want to look at getting them memory care, so they won’t be responsible for managing all their belongings.

5. Poor Judgement

Your senior should not be making bad decisions routinely. Dementia affects the brain’s decision-making processes, which will impact their ability to take care of themselves. They may stop looking after themselves, choose to skip doctor’s appointments, or caring about their financial situation.

If you think your loved one is suffering from dementia, it may be time to look into memory care. The Wellington Place at Biron staff offers a comfortable, not-for-profit nursing home with all the care your loved one needs in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. The staff and registered nurses are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for any elderly care needs, from grooming assistance to medication management. Learn more on their website and call (715) 423-5600 to schedule a visit.