Early Signs of Dementia You Shouldn’t Ignore in San Antonio, TX

As our loved ones age, it’s natural to notice some changes in their memory, thinking, and behavior. 

But how do we know when these changes are more than just a part of growing older? 

Recognizing the early signs of dementia is crucial for getting help early and preserving quality of life. 

Let’s break down what’s normal and what might signal something more serious.

What you will learn:

• The difference between normal aging and early signs of dementia to help you recognize when to seek support.
  
• Seven key warning signs of dementia that should not be overlooked in your loved ones.
  
• The importance of early detection for diagnosis, care planning, and accessing helpful resources.
  
• How in-home care from Always Best Care of San Antonio can provide compassionate support and peace of mind.

Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia

Age-related memory changes are common and usually don’t disrupt daily life. For instance, a senior might take a bit longer to recall a word or forget why they walked into a room, but the information typically comes back. They’re still able to manage household tasks, keep appointments, and make sound decisions. 

On the other hand, dementia is a progressive condition that interferes with the ability to function independently. It affects memory, communication, reasoning, and judgment, eventually requiring full-time care.

7 Key Dementia Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Here are some red flags that could indicate early dementia:

1. Frequent Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information and relying heavily on notes or others to remember things they used to manage on their own.
   
2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to follow a recipe, balance a checkbook, or operate appliances they’ve used for years.
   
3. Trouble Finding Words or Following Conversations: Difficulty expressing thoughts or understanding what others are saying, often pausing, repeating themselves, or having trouble naming everyday objects.
   
4. Poor Judgment or Decision-Making: Giving away large sums of money, neglecting hygiene, or dressing inappropriately for the weather.
   
5. Confusion About Time or Place: Getting lost in familiar places, forgetting how they got somewhere, or becoming confused about the date or season.
   
6. Changes in Mood or Personality: Unusual irritability, depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities.
   
7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps: Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them again without help.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs in a loved one, it’s time to speak with a healthcare provider. 

Early detection can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and more effective management. It also allows for better planning, access to resources, and family involvement.

How In-Home Care Can Help

Caring for a loved one showing signs of dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging. That’s where in-home support from Always Best Care of San Antonio can make a meaningful difference. 

Our caregivers are trained to recognize the early symptoms of cognitive decline and keep families informed about changes. They can help with daily tasks, encourage mental stimulation, and provide much-needed companionship. 

Having a compassionate caregiver in the home gives families peace of mind, ensuring that your loved one is safe, supported, and able to maintain as much independence as possible.

FAQ

Q: What’s the difference between normal aging and early dementia?
A: Normal aging involves memory changes that don’t disrupt daily life, while early dementia affects memory, communication, and judgment, impacting independence.

Q: How can I support a loved one with early signs of dementia?
A: Seek professional evaluation early, and consider in-home care for support with daily tasks and companionship.

Q: Why is early detection important?
A: Early detection allows for better planning, access to resources, and more effective management of dementia.

Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation at Always Best Care of San Antonio!

If you’re concerned about memory changes in someone you care about, don’t wait to take action. Contact Always Best Care of San Antonio at (210) 772-2277 for a care consultation. Our experienced team can help you understand your options and create a care plan tailored to your loved one’s unique needs. Early support matters—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.