You forgot about the doctor’s appointment scheduled for last Tuesday, misplaced your reading glasses for the umpteenth time, and can’t remember the name of the new neighbor for your life. Is it just a standard part of aging, or could it be the mild cognitive impairment that indicates the start of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia?
The fear of developing dementia is not uncommon; growing as dementia has increased awareness, contributing to worries about our potential loss of independence and functionality and memory challenges. It also raises questions regarding future living and care arrangements, if the time should come that assistance is needed to remain safe and to take care of everyday needs.
However, it’s important to know there are a variety of triggers for forgetfulness that happen to be unrelated to Alzheimer’s, and some amount of memory decline is merely part and parcel of aging. For example, recently available statistics show that only 5% of older adults ages 71 – 79 have dementia; however, that number increases to 37% for those aged 90 and over.
The first step is to consult with your primary care physician about any mild cognitive impairment you are experiencing to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Before your appointment, take note of details such as:
When the impairment started
Whether it was a gradual or sudden decline
If it impacts everyday life: eating, getting dressed, taking care of personal hygiene needs, etc.
The physician will want to eliminate problems that can mimic dementia – such as depression and delirium – and assess whether the issue may stem from medication side effects. Dementia progresses slowly and in addition to memory deficits, can impact the ability to:
Communicate
The reason, judge, and problem-solve
Focus and pay attention
For anyone diagnosed with dementia or any other condition that affects the ability to manage the day-to-day life independently, Modern Health Home Care, the leaders in elderly care in Philadelphia and surrounding communities, is always available to provide as much or as little help as needed by thoroughly trained and experienced care professionals. A few of the various ways we can help seniors with dementia or other challenges remain safe, comfortable, and independent at home include:
Help with personal care needs, like showering and getting dressed
Transportation to medical appointments and enjoyable outings
Running errands
Planning and preparing meals
Household tasks
Engaging activities and socialization
And much more
Call us at 215.995.2012to schedule a free in-home assessment and more information on how we can help.
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