Grace always knew her mom, Peggy, was a bit scattered. Peggy, now 79, had a knack for misplacing her glasses or forgetting where she parked the car. But when Peggy started ignoring familiar faces and struggling to follow conversations, Grace realized something more than typical aging was happening. A visit to a neurologist confirmed it: her mom had early-stage Alzheimer’s.
There can be some stigma and shame involved when you’re the one who must make the difficult decision to move a loved one into a memory care community, but seeking help and support is a sign of strength and compassion.
Whether you want to learn more about Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, debunk misconceptions related to cognitive impairment, or are an adult child caregiver like Grace considering memory care for a loved one, this blog explains what to know about dementia. We’ll also share how The Seville will create a supportive and positive environment for memory-impaired residents when our senior living community opens its doors in San Clemente.
What Is Dementia, Anyway?
Dementia isn’t a natural part of aging and it’s more than just forgetfulness. It encompasses a range of cognitive impairments that affect memory, thinking, problem-solving, social abilities and personality. Essentially, dementia describes various symptoms of cognitive decline, serving as an indicator of several underlying diseases and brain disorders.
While Alzheimer’s is the most common form, other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia. Understanding the different forms and symptoms can help you recognize and address these conditions effectively. Diagnosis is complex and involves medical history, physical exams, neurological tests and sometimes brain imaging.
If you’re wondering how to know if you have dementia, here are seven signs to look for. Keep in mind that early symptoms may be subtle.
- Memory loss: Frequently forgetting recent events, conversations or appointments, repeatedly asking for the same information, and relying on memory aids or family members for tasks previously handled independently.
- Difficulty with complex tasks: Struggling to follow familiar recipes, manage bills, concentrate or complete tasks promptly.
- Confusion with time or place: Losing track of dates and time, forgetting locations and struggling to understand things not happening immediately.
- Problems with language: Difficulty finding the right words or naming objects, trouble following or joining conversations, and often repeating yourself.
- Poor judgment: Making poor decisions, neglecting grooming and dressing inappropriately for the weather.
- Withdrawal from social activities: Removing yourself from hobbies, social activities, work or volunteer projects due to the changes you’ve experienced.
- Changes in mood and personality: Experiencing mood swings, confusion, suspicion, depression, fear, anxiety, and becoming easily upset when out of your comfort zone or faced with unexpected situations.
Resources for Learning About Dementia
Several national and state resources in California offer opportunities to learn about dementia and navigate its challenges through educational materials, support groups, clinical services and research opportunities.
- National Institute on Aging
- Alzheimer’s Association (California Southland Chapter)
- California Department of Aging
- Family Caregiver Alliance
- Alzheimer’s Los Angeles
- UC San Francisco Memory and Aging Center
- California Alzheimer’s Disease Centers (CADCs)
- Alzheimer’s Orange County
- Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
Myths and Facts About Dementia
Many misconceptions exist about Alzheimer’s, other forms of dementia, and life in memory care communities. Let’s address a few of them.
Myth: No support is available after a dementia diagnosis.
Fact: A memory care community like The Seville supports residents and their families. Our secure, homelike environment ensures safety and comfort, reducing confusion and enhancing well-being. Collaborative partnerships with families and healthcare professionals create comprehensive care plans, forming a solid support network for each resident.
Myth: Memory care communities solely address medical needs.
Fact: The Seville employes the MOSAIC approach to memory care. This means we’re committed to creating a nurturing, fulfilling environment for those we care for, ensuring their days are filled with purpose, health, safety, collaboration, personalization and community connection.
Myth: Memory care communities are gloomy places.
Fact: Modern communities like The Seville foster a vibrant and enriching environment. Social activities, group outings and bonding opportunities make sure everyone feels included and engaged. Each day is filled with joyful and purposeful programming, such as art and music therapy and cognitive games.
Myth: Memory care programs lack personalization.
Fact: Individualized plans at The Seville honor each resident’s history, preferences and care needs. These plans include customized daily routines and fitness classes, nutritious and delicious meals tailored to dietary requirements, medication management and medical supervision at all times.
At The Seville, residents will receive exceptional memory care through comprehensive support and enrichment tailored to their needs and preferences. Schedule a visit to learn more about our memory care programs and offerings.
Featured Image: 9nong / Shutterstock