{"id":17526,"date":"2025-05-10T08:00:57","date_gmt":"2025-05-10T08:00:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/?p=17526"},"modified":"2025-05-15T19:50:12","modified_gmt":"2025-05-15T19:50:12","slug":"early-signs-dementia-tempe-az","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-tempe-az\/","title":{"rendered":"Early Signs of Dementia You Shouldn\u2019t Ignore"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As our loved ones age, it&#8217;s natural to notice some changes in their memory, thinking, and behavior.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But how do we know when these changes are more than just a part of normal aging?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recognizing the early signs of dementia is crucial for getting help early and preserving quality of life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this article, we&#8217;ll break down the key differences between typical aging and early dementia, and explore how in-home care can make a meaningful difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you will learn<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How to distinguish between normal age-related forgetfulness and the early warning signs of dementia.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The most common early symptoms of dementia.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The importance of early detection for accessing accurate diagnosis, effective management, and support resources for your loved one.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How compassionate in-home care from Always Best Care can help families by providing expert assistance, companionship, and peace of mind throughout the dementia journey.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-tempe-az\/#Normal_Aging_vs_Early_Dementia\" title=\"Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia\">Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-tempe-az\/#Key_Signs_You_Shouldnt_Ignore\" title=\"Key Signs You Shouldn\u2019t Ignore\">Key Signs You Shouldn\u2019t Ignore<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-tempe-az\/#When_to_Seek_Help\" title=\"When to Seek Help\">When to Seek Help<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-tempe-az\/#How_In-Home_Care_Can_Help_Your_Loved_One\" title=\"How In-Home Care Can Help Your Loved One\">How In-Home Care Can Help Your Loved One<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-tempe-az\/#FAQ\" title=\"FAQ\">FAQ<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-tempe-az\/#Schedule_Your_Free_Care_Consultation_With_Always_Best_Care_of_Tempe\" title=\"Schedule Your Free Care Consultation With Always Best Care of Tempe!\">Schedule Your Free Care Consultation With Always Best Care of Tempe!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Normal_Aging_vs_Early_Dementia\"><\/span>Normal Aging vs. Early Dementia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Age-related memory changes often involve forgetfulness that doesn&#8217;t disrupt daily life. For instance, a senior might take longer to recall a word or forget why they walked into a room, but the information typically comes back. They&#8217;re still able to manage household tasks, keep appointments, and make sound decisions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the other hand, dementia is a progressive condition that interferes with the ability to <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/resources\/should-your-aging-parent-still-be-driving\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">function independently<\/a>. It affects memory, communication, reasoning, and judgment, eventually requiring full-time care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/182-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"An elderly man wearing glasses and a striped shirt appears confused or concerned, holding his forehead while looking at a tablet. The background has a creative effect that fades from the man's head into a light, scattered particle design.\" class=\"wp-image-17529\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/182-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/182-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/182-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/182.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Signs_You_Shouldnt_Ignore\"><\/span>Key Signs You Shouldn\u2019t Ignore<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some early signs of dementia that you shouldn&#8217;t ignore:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Frequent Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life<\/strong>: Forgetting recently learned information and relying heavily on notes or others to remember things they used to manage on their own.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks<\/strong>: Struggling to follow a recipe, balance a checkbook, or operate appliances they\u2019ve used for years.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trouble Finding Words or Following Conversations<\/strong>: Difficulty expressing thoughts or understanding what others are saying, often pausing, repeating themselves, or having trouble naming everyday objects.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Poor Judgment or Decision-Making<\/strong>: Giving away large sums of money, neglecting hygiene, or <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/resources\/balance-exercises-for-seniors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">dressing inappropriately<\/a> for the weather.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Confusion About Time or Place<\/strong>: Getting lost in familiar places, forgetting how they got somewhere, or becoming confused about the date or season.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changes in Mood or Personality<\/strong>: Unusual irritability, depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps<\/strong>: Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them again without help.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_Seek_Help\"><\/span>When to Seek Help<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;ve noticed one or more of these signs in a loved one, it&#8217;s time to speak with a <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/resources\/encouraging-your-aging-parent-to-accept-help\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">healthcare provider<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/185-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"An elderly woman in a wheelchair, wearing a pink sweater, is drawing with colored pencils. A female caregiver in a teal shirt sits beside her, offering support and encouragement with a gentle smile.\" class=\"wp-image-17532\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/185-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/185-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/185-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/185.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_In-Home_Care_Can_Help_Your_Loved_One\"><\/span>How In-Home Care Can Help Your Loved One<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Caring for a loved one showing signs of dementia can be emotionally and physically challenging. That&#8217;s where in-home support can make a meaningful difference.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Caregivers from Always Best Care 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.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having a compassionate caregiver in the home gives families peace of mind, ensuring that their loved one is safe, supported, and able to maintain as much independence as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ\"><\/span>FAQ<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: What is the difference between normal aging and early dementia?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Normal aging involves forgetfulness that doesn&#8217;t disrupt daily life, while early dementia affects memory, communication, and judgment, impacting independence.<br><br><strong>Q: How can in-home care help with dementia?<\/strong><br>A: <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/in-home-care\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">In-home care<\/a> provides support with daily tasks, mental stimulation, and companionship, helping maintain independence and ensuring safety.<br><br><strong>Q: Why is early detection important?<\/strong><br>A: Early detection leads to a more accurate diagnosis, better management, and access to resources and family support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/186-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"A female caregiver in a white and green uniform assists an elderly man seated at a table. The table is scattered with colorful toys and crafts, suggesting a therapeutic or engaging activity session. The room has bright natural light from a window with sheer curtains.\" class=\"wp-image-17533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/186-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/186-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/186-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/36\/2025\/05\/186.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Schedule_Your_Free_Care_Consultation_With_Always_Best_Care_of_Tempe\"><\/span>Schedule Your Free Care Consultation With Always Best Care of Tempe!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re concerned about memory changes in someone you care about, don\u2019t wait to take action. <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Contact Always Best Care of Tempe<\/a> at <a href=\"tel:(480) 676-1446\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(480) 676-1446<\/a> for a care consultation. Our experienced team can help you understand your options and create a care plan tailored to your loved one\u2019s unique needs. Early support matters\u2014and you don\u2019t have to navigate it alone.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Recognize the early signs of dementia in Tempe, AZ, and learn when to seek professional help to ensure your loved one receives the care they need.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":17527,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[164],"tags":[316,317,318,319,320,321],"class_list":["post-17526","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dementia-care"],"acf":{"background_image_blog_posts":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17526","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17526"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17526\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17527"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17526"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17526"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/tempe\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17526"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}