Seeing a loved one suffer from dementia is a heart-wrenching experience, and as time goes by, we often see them continue to deteriorate. Dementia is a condition that affects people's cognitive abilities, making it difficult for them to perform daily activities and communicate effectively. Symptoms can often get worse with time and finding out how to manage these changes can often be a real challenge. Many times, an individual suffering from dementia may not realize that they are going through changes, and it is up to their caregivers to recognize and address these issues.In this blog post, we will discuss some warning signs that your loved one's dementia is worsening and what you can do about it to ensure their proper care and well-being.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It is not a single disease but rather an umbrella term for several different conditions that cause cognitive decline. Dementia can be caused by various medical conditions such as stroke, brain tumor, or Alzheimer's disease. Types of DementiaThere are several different types of dementia which include the following.Alzheimer's Disease
This is the most common cause of dementia and impacts memory, language skills, and reasoning. Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen with time.Vascular Dementia
This form of dementia is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain due to issues with circulation in the cerebrovascular system. It causes difficulty concentrating, planning tasks, or solving problems.Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)
LBD involves clumps of protein deposits called "Lewy Bodies" forming in parts of the brain related to movement control and cognitive processes like organization. Symptoms typically involve changes in cognition as well as motor function problems such as tremors or stiffness in limbs.Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
FTD occurs when nerve cells located within frontal lobe areas associated with problem-solving and decision-making become damaged over time due to a degenerative condition.Warning Signs of Deteriorating Dementia
As dementia progresses, individuals can experience a myriad of different symptoms, from changes in communication to difficulties with everyday tasks. Here are some warning signs to watch out for.1. Increased Forgetfulness
People with dementia may often forget important details like their name, address, phone number, or even their loved ones' names. However, this forgetfulness can worsen over time, making it challenging to hold conversations or complete simple tasks. Taking notes of things they need to remember or writing notes for them to follow will be of help.2. Language Problems
Cognitive decline in dementia can affect a person's language skills. They may have difficulty understanding what is being said, and communicating their thoughts and emotions can become more challenging. In the later stages of dementia, they may have difficulty speaking or be unable to speak at all.3. Personality or Mood Changes
Dementia can often bring about changes in a person's personality and mood. They may become more irritable, agitated, or anxious. These changes can be quite abrupt, and the person may struggle with managing their emotions, which could lead to outbursts or aggression.4. Difficulty Performing Routine Activities
Simple tasks that used to come easily, such as brushing their teeth or getting dressed, become more challenging as dementia worsens. Eventually, they may need hands-on assistance to perform regular daily activities.5. Wandering or Getting Lost
With advanced dementia, memory loss, and disorientation can cause people to wander aimlessly, even outside their homes. If your loved one has a tendency to wander, it's crucial to put in measures to ensure their safety.What to Do If Your Loved One Has Progressive Dementia
Caring for a person with worsening dementia can be a challenging and emotional experience. Here are some tips to help you provide the best care possible:1. Establish a Routine
A routine can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort to a person with dementia. Try to establish a daily schedule that includes typical activities such as meals, exercise, and relaxation. Scheduling activities during the time of day when the person with dementia is most alert can help them feel more engaged and focused.2. Use Memory Aids
As dementia progresses, memory loss becomes increasingly significant. Memory aids such as alarm clocks, calendars, and labeled drawers can help a person with dementia stay organized and maintain some independence. Using pictures and visual cues can also help assist with communication.3. Seek Support
Caring for a person with worsening dementia can be overwhelming and emotionally draining. It's essential to seek support from friends, family members, or healthcare professionals. Joining a caregiver support group can provide valuable resources and provide emotional support when it's needed most.Remember, as a caregiver, it's essential to stay patient, flexible, and empathetic. Taking care of a loved one with worsening dementia can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, it can also be rewarding.Conclusion
Watching a loved one suffer from dementia can be an emotional and daunting experience. Identifying these warning signs can help prepare you for changes that may occur and aid in providing the best possible care and quality of life for your loved one.If you are struggling to care for a loved one with dementia, don't hesitate to reach out and ask for professional help. Remember, you're not alone, and there is always help available.Also Read: Dementia vs Alzheimer
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