30 Apr Common signs for Dementia and Alzheimer’s not to be ignored
Common signs for Dementia and Alzheimer’s not to be ignored
The great advantage with having care at home is the preventative action of early detection of symptoms of conditions such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s – these can be treated a lot more effectively or the effects minimised if discovered early.
One of our Care Managers here in Applewood is a specialist in Dementia and Alzheimer’s support and regularly updates our carers with strategies and advise to ensure they can effectively care for the clients in receipt of their care.
Our carers recently completed the HSE programme ‘The Early Identification of Memory Problems in Older Persons’ which focuses on an understanding of person-centred dementia care. It provides great insight into the challenges faced by clients and the approach to treatment by G.P’s and mental health professionals. This programme has also been an excellent support in terms of information on how best to support our clients and their families. Some common signs for Dementia and Alzheimer’s are:
Memory Loss
• The person is asking for the same information over and over again
• They are forgetting or can’t follow a recipe or rules a favourite card/board game
• Difficulties driving to familiar locations – they can’t remember where they parked the car
Confusion
• Confusion about time and place like the day of the week.
• They have difficulty reading, judging distance and even determining colour or contrast
• Poor Judgement – giving money to telemarketers/obvious scams
Losing things
• This can be a word, or the train of conversation, new problems emerge with words in speaking or writing
• Misplacing things or putting them in unusual places
Mood Changes
• These include becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious especially when the person is out of their comfort zone
• A person may withdraw from work or social activities because of the fear of what is happening in relation to the above
If you are worried about your loved one please visit your GP as early intervention can provide strategies to support the impact of these conditions. If you want any further advice please feel free to call us on 01 4992201 or email us at info@applewoodhomecare.ie.