We’ve all had moments of forgetfulness; who hasn’t forgotten where they left they car keys or forgot to pick up their dry cleaning? But when those forgetful moments become more frequent or more severe, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s going on. If you have an aging parent, and you have concerns about their mental health and living independently, residential care in Plymouth may be the next step. Here are some of the top signs that your parent may have dementia or other disease that affects the memory and mind:
* Diminished self-care capabilities: If you notice that your parent is having difficulties bathing, dressing, eating or other basic self-care tasks, it could be an early sign of dementia.
* Getting lost in familiar places: Does your parent get lost on the way home from the store, a route they’ve taken a thousand times before? Are they constantly forgetting what day of the week it is? Confusion and disorientation are early signs of dementia.
* Repeatedly asking the same questions: Does your parent ask you the same questions throughout the day? Do you find yourself explaining the answer multiple times?
* Not able to follow directions: Difficulty following simple directions can be a sign of dementia or other disease that affects memory.
It’s important to remember not to self-diagnose. If you have concerns, the first step is to take your loved one to see their primary health care provider. If a positive diagnosis is made, then your priority will be to ensure your parent’s safety and well-being. That could mean having your parent move in with you and hiring nurses around the clock. This could get expensive, not to mention stressful for you and your family. Residential care in Plymouth can provide around-the-clock care, giving your loved one secure and comfortable surroundings. For more information, visit us