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Dementia early signs are very subtle and may not be immediately obvious. However, it is very beneficial to be able to recognize and diagnose dementia early. Signs of the disease that appear early on may include:

• Memory problems, specifically remembering recent events
• Increased confusion or disorientation
• Reduced ability to concentrate
• Changes in behavior or personality 
• Apathy, withdrawal, and depression
• Loss of ability to perform everyday tasks

People may fail to recognise that these symptoms are an indication that something is wrong. They may assume that it is simply a normal part of the aging process. Dementia’s early signs will develop gradually and tend to go unnoticed for a long time. 

People with dementia can live meaningful and productive lives for many years after an early diagnosis. Acting on dementia early signs and getting a diagnosis sooner allows both the individual and family members to learn about the disease, set expectations, and plan for the future. 

Here are some benefits of recognizing dementia early signs and getting a diagnosis.

1: Know what to expect

Some treatable conditions have symptoms that are similar to dementia’s early signs. For example, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disease, sleep disorders, alcohol abuse, or depression. That’s why it’s important to speak with a medical professional right away if you notice any changes in behavior or ability.

2: Use treatments more effectively

Treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is typically more effective when started early on in the disease’s progression. This includes medications as well as some alternative therapies.

3: Focus on what’s important

Recognizing and diagnosing dementia early signs allows you to set priorities based on what’s important to you, whether that’s taking time away from work, spending time with family, or traveling. 

4: Be empowered in your choices

Earlier in the disease’s progression you’ll be able to participate more actively in your own healthcare decisions and future plans. You can make informed decisions about legal, financial and care matters and make your wishes known to your family and friends.

5: Take advantage of resources

Both you and your family can benefit from support and education programs that can help you learn how to live well with dementia. If your family can understand the challenges that come with dementia, they’ll be better able to support you and get the help that you need.

How are assisted living and nursing homes similar?

Both types of senior care aim to keep residents safe, healthy, and comfortable. Here are some services you will find at both assisted living and nursing home care facilities.

• Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) – these include bathing, dressing and personal care. 
• Medication management – Sometimes older adults may miss a dose or take too much of their medication accidentally. 
• Life enrichment – seniors are at higher risk for isolation and loneliness. Assisted living communities and nursing home facilities offer a variety of life enrichment activities designed to keep residents engaged.
• Supportive services – these include tasks like housekeeping, laundry and transportation. 
• Safe environment –  Both environments are designed with the security of an older adult in mind and may include features such as handrails, grab bars, and emergency call systems.
• Meals and nutrition – Both communities focus on providing well-balanced meals to keep residents healthy. 

What are the differences between nursing homes and assisted living?

The biggest differences between these two senior living options are the assistive or medical services provided, living arrangements, and cost. 

Type of care:

In assisted living, residents essentially live independently, and receive care with some activities as needed. Those in a nursing home require around the clock care and monitoring. They typically live with more complex health care conditions that require medical assistance from a nurse or a physical or speech therapist. 

Living arrangements:

Assisted living communities are designed to feel homey and familiar. Residents typically live in their own apartments or suites with private baths and kitchenettes. On the other hand, nursing homes have more of a clinical environment and residents live in a private or semi private room that does not include a living room or kitchen. 

Cost:

Nursing homes tend to be more costly because of the more intense level of care provided.

Whether you choose assisted living or nursing home care for your loved one will depend on their medical situation and the level of support that they need day-to-day. If your loved one is able to live independently but may need occasional support, or maybe they just prefer living in a more community-oriented environment, Courtyard Manor can help. Call us to schedule a tour or to learn more about our programs and services.

Stage 1: Before Symptoms Appear

Changes in the brain related to Alzheimer’s begin before symptoms are noticeable. The pre-clinical stage of Alzheimer’s disease may begin 10 years before people begin to experience symptoms. It’s not possible to treat anyone at this early stage. It’s important to keep up with regular healthcare visits to screen for signs of disease.

Stage 2: Basic Forgetfulness

The early stages of Alzheimer’s can look like normal, age-related forgetfulness. Your loved one may experience common memory lapses but they can still function independently. If you notice a dramatic increase in these occurrences, you may be able to have your loved one start treatment sooner and help slow the progression of the disease.

Stage 3: Noticeable Memory Difficulties

The third stage of Alzheimer’s disease will bring more noticeable changes, and most people are diagnosed in this stage. Your loved one may have trouble remembering materials that they read recently, plans that they made, names and words. They may experience challenges in social settings or at work, and will feel anxiety about what’s going on. The best way to manage further symptoms is to talk to your loved one’s doctor about treatment options.

Stage 4: Advanced Memory Loss

This stage of Alzheimer’s disease can last for many years. It will lead to further trouble with language, organization, and decision-making. Situations that require a lot of effort such as attending a social gathering can be frustrating. Your loved may experience: 

• Confusion about what day it is and where they are
• Increased risk of wandering off or getting lost
• Changes in sleep patterns, such as restlessness at night and sleeping during the day
• Loss of interest in activities they typically enjoy
• Feeling withdrawn, moody or anxiety

Stage 5: Decreased Independence

Up until the fifth stage of Alzehimer’s, your loved one may have been able to live independently without significant challenges. As the disease progresses, our loved one will likely have trouble remembering people that are important to them, such as close family and friends. Basic tasks like getting dressed may become too much for them to handle. They may also begin to experience hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia.

Stage 6: Severe Symptoms

Your loved one will be experiencing more severe symptoms during the sixth stage of Alzheimer’s. Verbal communication will become more difficult, and they will depend on others for assistance with daily tasks. Behavioral changes will continue to occur, and your loved one may become irritated or frustrated with you. It’s important to remain calm and patient and try to remember that they lack awareness of their actions.

Stage 7: Lack of Physical Control

Alzheimer’s destroys brain cells, which can eventually cause severe mental and physical impairment. Your loved one will likely need round-the-clock care for help with walking, sitting and eventually swallowing. Due to their reduced mobility, their body can also become vulnerable to infections, such as pneumonia. To help avoid infections, it is crucial to keep their teeth and mouth clean, treat cuts and scrapes with an antibiotic ointment right away, and make sure they stay up to date on vaccinations.

1. Combat Social Isolation

Seniors living alone are at a higher risk for social isolation and increased feelings of loneliness and depression. In assisted living, seniors reside in a community environment where they are encouraged to participate in social events. They have opportunities to connect with others and forge friendships while being supported by caring staff members. 

2. 24/7 Professional and Compassionate Care 

Residents in assisted living may need help with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, hygiene, medication assistance, and more. Trained staff will ensure that residents receive the attention and care they deserve and are safe from falls or other injuries.

3. Independence

No one wants to feel like they’re sacrificing their independence. Assisted living communities offer customized care that meet residents where they are. With planned activities, social events, and classes, communities make it easier to age more carefree, confidently, and with more fun. Seniors are able to achieve a higher quality of life and make decisions for themselves.

4. More Free Time

It’s time to ditch the daily burden of home maintenance and chores. Seniors have better things to do than shovel snow, mow the lawn, and clean their house. At assisted living communities, residents don’t have to worry about cleaning or cooking. This leaves more free time to delve into passions, travel, find a new hobby, or simply relax. 

5. Nutrition 

The meals provided in assisted living are specifically created to benefit senior health. Cooking for yourself by yourself can become challenging with age. Residents can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals and enjoy mealtimes as a social activity. 

6. Safe Transportation

When driving becomes unsafe, or car ownership is too much of a hassle, assisted living communities offer reliable transportation to local shopping, dining, events, and doctor appointments. Residents can get wherever they need to go safely.

7. Peace of Mind

Friends and family of residents rest easy knowing their loved one is being well cared for in a home-like environment. Seniors can relax too with the knowledge that they are supported and safe.

If you’re caring for someone with dementia, it’s important to understand what to expect. Keep track of symptoms to communicate with your loved one’s doctor. People with dementia may experience symptoms and behaviors that include:

• Agitation
• Repetitive actions or speech
• Wandering
• Insomnia
• Incontinence
• Confusion
• Poor judgment
• Getting lost 
• Avoiding social activities 

If you struggle with racing thoughts as you’re trying to fall asleep, try journaling before bed. This nighttime routine can help clear your mind and prepare for rest. This could be a recap of your day, a list of things you’re grateful for, or something you’re looking forward to tomorrow.

Arts and crafts can be a great way to continue making positive memories with your loved one and may even help their memory loss symptoms. Here are some benefits of arts and crafts for seniors with memory loss: 

• Reduced stress: Working on crafts can be a relaxing activity and reduce stress levels. It can also improve concentration and increase cognitive function.
• Reconnection: As their dementia progresses, your senior loved one may become withdrawn. Art can awaken their memory and allow them to reconnect to their senses, emotions, and the people around them. 
• Not physically intensive: Some crafts like sewing or knitting may be painful or difficult for an older adult. If so, skip those and concentrate on the ones that won’t physically bother them.
• Self-expression: Dementia can be confusing and inhibit an older adult’s ability to express their emotions. Arts and crafts can provide a positive, non-verbal outlet to express their moods and thoughts.

Eggs are an excellent source of protein for those with no appetite. Not only are eggs inexpensive, but they also can be prepared in many different ways. Try scrambling, boiling, and frying them to get an idea of what type of dish your loved one prefers. 

This is a classic child-friendly snack that’s fun for all ages. It’s full of healthy ingredients and will keep you full until dinnertime.

Ingredients:

• Celery sticks cut in half
• ¼ cup peanut butter
• 1 handful of raisins

Instructions:

• Wash the celery sticks and then cut each stick in half.
• Add peanut butter to the crevice of the celery sticks, evenly spreading it across.
• Push the raisins into the peanut butter, creating the appearance of “ants.”

This is a fun concept that can be repeated with several different types of ingredients. Get creative and come up with your own version of ants on a log.