Dementia and other memory-related conditions can be easily managed in the early stages. Most times, many who live with mild cognitive decline can still lead an independent lifestyle or with the help of their family. Nonetheless, those with greater memory issues may need some assistance from specialists who have been professionally trained in dementia care. It can sometimes get overwhelming for families to continue caregiving without proper training. At times like that, you should consider memory care for your loved ones. However, as dementia symptoms may change every now and then, it is difficult to identify the signs when they need more help.
Troubles with Daily Activities
If your loved one is the type who always maintains their appearance, one of the obvious signs is when they forget to take care of their personal hygiene. They may forget to perform daily hygiene routines such as showering or dressing up. They may also struggle to wash their hair or use cosmetics and become too self-conscious to seek assistance. In severe cases, people with dementia may experience incontinence or neglect to wash their hands after using the restroom.
Check to see if their medication is well-managed. Forgetting to take medication, or consuming too much of it, might have catastrophic consequences. Alerts, reminders, and pill separators may be useful for older adults with early-stage dementia, but those with severe cognitive impairment require additional assistance. Medication administration is a crucial aspect of memory care.
Behavioral Changes
When you’re constantly caring for someone with dementia, it can be difficult to notice subtle changes, such as persistent weight loss across several months. Check to see if any of their friends or family members have mentioned any shifts in their behavior. A family member or acquaintance who only sees the person a few times a year may find this change alarming and noticeable.
Have you also noticed them wandering around aimlessly? That is a common symptom that it is time to relocate to a retirement community. While the confusion might be temporary, it can put your loved one in a perilous situation if they were to go out on the roads or in bad weather.
Caregiver Burnout
Have you been feeling frustrated and tired from caregiving? While it is natural for dementia caregivers to feel stress from time to time, these feelings need to be managed well or it can have detrimental effects on both the caregiver and the dementia patient. Burnout among caregivers can have major physical and mental repercussions. When it starts to affect your life to that extent, perhaps it is time to hand over the responsibility to an expert for both your and your loved one best interests.
Safety Concerns
Consider whether it is safe for your loved ones to live in the space they are in. Someone with memory-related conditions may begin to collect household goods or neglect housekeeping. They may also consume spoiled food or fail to clean up animal feces. Trip risks, fall hazards, cooking equipment, weapons, and domestic chemicals are all potential safety concerns at home, especially if you are not around to check on their living conditions on a regular basis.
