3 Signs Of Dementia To Look For In Your Aging Loved One

Seeing someone that you love age and enter his or her elderly years can be discouraging. You might have hoped that you could care for them throughout their life, or hoped that their golden years wouldn't be ridden with illness. However, many people become ill physically and mentally as they age, as in the case of Alzheimer's disease or dementia. If you have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's or dementia, it is important that you are looking for the signs that the illness is progressing and that they need additional help and care beyond what you can give. Here are some things to look for.

1. The Individual Is Experiencing Personality Changes and Violent Outbursts

It is not unusual for a person with dementia to experience personality changes as the illness progresses. Someone who might have been an easy going, kind person, may all of the sudden become critical, angry, and constantly frustrated. In addition, violent outbursts are common. They might lash out against family members, care givers, or even try to hurt themselves.

If your loved one is having violent outbursts it is important for their safety, and the safety of everyone in your home, that they be admitted to a facility that has the resources and the manpower to deal with these sorts of things.

2. The Individual Is Paranoid

Another common symptom of the illness is that the person can become paranoid. They might begin to believe that a fictional person or organization is out to get them, or they might even think that family members or caregivers are going to hurt them. This could cause them to try to run away, fight against their loved ones, or even harm others all in the name of their paranoia. Once again, for their safety they need to be admitted to a facility for their protection.

3. The Individual Is Forgetful And Wandering

Obviously people with dementia experience a good amount of forgetting. You might notice that your loved one tries to get something in the house then forgets what they are doing, where they were going, or even where they are. They could wander outside and get lost, or worse. This is why they should be kept in a facility where there is constant care and staff to ensure that they don't harm themselves or get lost.

These are just some of the signs you need to look for in your aging loved one. Talk to an assisted living facility like Orchard Park for more information.