In this article we take a look at the warning signs of dementia that you shouldn’t ignore. But before we address the potential warning signs of dementia, we first need to understand what it is…
What is dementia?
Dementia is commonly misunderstood as a single condition. However, dementia is a group of symptoms that negatively impact cognitive functioning such as memory, thinking, and communication.
One of the most common types of dementia, Alzheimer’s, is associated with memory loss in early stages. However, frontotemporal dementia has a whole other set of symptoms and warning signs that are easy to dismiss or not take seriously.
What are the some common warning signs of dementia?
Changes in eating habits: The US National Institutes of Health have stated that “behavioral-variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) is characterized by insidious changes in personality and interpersonal conduct”. Changes in eating habits, such as craving sweet food, can be one warning sign of frontotemporal dementia. Other actions such as poor table manners, overconsumption of foods/drink and sweating are all examples of changes.
In recent news, craving sweet foods has been identified as a potential warning sign of dementia that should not be ignored.
Changes in character: Outside of changes in dietary habits, changes in energy and motivation can also be warning signs of frontotemporal dementia. Becoming overly familiar and making suggestive comments are two examples of changes in behaviour to be cautious of. Not to mention, reduced empathy, lack of care/attention and obsessive repetition are also warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
If you or anyone that you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek a medical professional and seek an accurate diagnosis at the earliest possible chance. Dementia symptoms are gradual/progressive and can worsen with time.
What can be done when diagnosed with dementia?
Once a friend or loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, there are two common options that people typically follow:
Mental health care homes
Mental health care homes are establishments that are designed to support the specialist needs that people with dementia have. These residential care homes are open 24/7 and house dementia clients – providing a level of care that families struggle to match in the family home. A specialist residential home will contain all of the necessary amenities that are required to ensure that people with dementia can be supported in their day-to-day lives with dignity and compassion.
Caring at home
The aforementioned symptoms mean that caring and supporting someone with dementia can be incredibly difficult – especially in your own home. Without trained carers, looking after a family member with dementia can be challenging at the best of times. Despite the challenges, many people around the world support family members with dementia at home. Depending on the severity of the dementia, this can mean that carrying out sanitation tasks, administration of medicines and overall emotional support is tasked to the immediate family.
To find out more on dementia and the warning signs, visit the NHS knowledgebase.
