How to recognise early signs of dementia

Dementia is often difficult to diagnose by those of us with non-medical training. It can arrive with a disturbing situation that sets off alarm bells to the person themselves and or the people with them. At other times it is not easy to know how to recognise early signs of dementia. This article aims to point up some hints as to how a carer can read some of the warning signs that precede the onset of some of the forms of these illnesses. The indications are occasionally easy to spot as a total variation in cognitive behaviour which is apparent to all and allow for early action to be taken.

For example, the lady who had worked in the same section of the (UK)  National Health Service for over twenty years and then suddenly one day found that she couldn’t remember the names of her colleagues nor find her way to the rest room. It was a temporary condition and allowed her to seek advice and proper diagnosis with appropriate steps put in place to meet her condition.

On the other hand, the onset of dementia is sometimes a very gradual process and ‘creeps up ‘ on the patient and carer alike. One of the early signs is

Probably the most common early stages sign is increasingly losing short term recall. For example, needing memory joggers, like written notes in prominent places. Having to set alarms to take normally familiar actions. Starting a task and after a brief distraction being unable to remember what you started doing.

Some other aspects of behaviour to look out for, when your loved one:

1 Tries to follow previous patterns e.g. going to work. It may mean they just get up early and start to prepare and dress ready for work. If unchecked it could lead to trying to get to work, by public transport for example.

2 Finds difficulty in navigating familiar surroundings. Forgetting the floor plan in their home. Looking for the way out. Locating local shops or shopping centres.

3 Asks to be taken home – when they are home. Sometimes to the extent that they won’t accept being assured that they are in fact in their home.

4 Takes longer than expected to return from a walk or trip. This is a real worrier for others in the household. It is very common, as shown by the number of times local news services start an item with the words, ” Authorities are searching for J….. B…… age 82, who went missing yesterday. If you have seen him or have any information please call 066…. “.

5 Can’t locate familiar objects. Frequently hearing the expression, ” Now just where did I put that ……?” The item could be right in front of them, like keys or a book that they have just been reading.

6 Pacing backwards and forwards restlessly. Wandering from room to room, or around the garden or neighbourhood

7 Endeavours to catch public transport. This sometimes happens when following a well-established habit that is no longer a part of their life. It can result in a very embarrassing situation for them if they have no means to pay the fare.

Preventative Ideas

Here are some ideas that might help minimise problems when the above behaviours occur.

1. Endeavour to distract the loved one from their course in a positive way, e.g. suggest they don’t have to work that particular day for whatever reason.
2. If possible try not to make a big issue of the situation and keep them calm. Ensure that they are accompanied when shopping etc.
3. Reassure them that they are home and show them by leading them, not just telling them where to go.
4. Be aware of when the person leaves the house and keep a check on the time. If possible arrange for someone to go with them. Don’t allow car keys to be freely available.
5. Be consistent in where items are kept, and be patient when your loved one can’t initially locate them.
6. Try to involve them in normal household activities, helping (within their capabilities) with chores etc.
7. If they are able to leave home without supervision it is difficult to control what they may attempt to do. One thing that is essential is to ensure that they always have ID and contact numbers with them (even if discreetly sewn into garments ). Attractive wrist bands with GPS trackers are now available for persistent wanderers.
8. In some situations where stress or agitation is shown when at home, music can often come to the rescue. Playing and in particular, sharing calming music can work wonders on the mood of the one you are caring for. If distraction is needed to guide them away from a repetitive or possibly harmful course, then a familiar tune or song is great for changing the mindset.

Important

Although we have suggested ways to help you to deal with situations your loved one may find themselves in, the first thing to do when any possible signs of dementia appear is to arrange for a professional diagnosis with a qualified medical practitioner.