Different signs: is it normal aging or dementia?
Despite all the creams, supplements, and surgeries, our bodies continue to age slowly. Obvious outer signs are sore joints, thinning hair, diminished eyesight, etc. While on the inside, the brain experiences its own slowdown.
The reflex thought is there, yet the reaction time is slower. Like reaching to return a tennis volley or applying the breaks in a car. Our reaction time is slower. At a class reunion, how many names are stuck on the tip of your tongue? Who starred in Jaws? And ‘Why did I come into this room?’
In addition, we throw all kinds of challenges at the brain and body. From smoking, drinking, lack of sleep, drugs, overmedications, poor nutrition, little exercise…let’s add…smart phones, multitasking, and social media. All these accelerate brain aging and cognitive thought.
Did you know UTIs (urinary tract infections), Lyme disease, thyroid issues, depression, and other problems interfere with cognitive function, which can be mistaken for dementia? These can be treated by a family doctor. Be aware, dementia symptoms are NOT sudden. They develop over time and require an involved diagnosis. Plus, there are several types of dementia, some with similar symptoms, others quite different.
Early signs of dementia are noticeable if we pay attention. I call it a ‘look back moment’. “Oh yeah, I noticed but didn’t think it was serious.” Or, we didn’t want to think about it. If we’re aware and prepared, there’s no need to fear Alzheimer’s.
Memory is not the issue in the early stages; Mom seems fine, yet she is easily confused. A fast-paced conversation is hard for her to follow, and small decisions become a ‘big deal’. For example, it’s hard for her to plan a family meal. Something she’s always done. Her behavior has changed. Family reactions to this are another topic.
Be aware that months could pass between noticeable changes in behavior. So, on a calendar, keep quick notes to date any differences. Over time, do these changes become more frequent or worsen? It’s time to respond before problems escalate.
Has Mom noticed these changes? This brings us to acceptance and denial. Make time to talk. Don’t force it. Be prepared with a ‘spur of the moment’ conversation. Keep it casual. She may speak to you, or not! This is difficult. Let her know you want to help. Keep the door open so she knows you’re there. Be supportive and don’t judge. But don’t wait too long either. Begin to build trust, not tension.
If she has noticed changes, she might respond, “Why do you think there’s something wrong with me?” Answer: “I’m not sure. Are you concerned?” Remain calm, positive, and stay on track. If necessary, use the calendar notes. Maybe this is something the family doctor can treat. If not, it’s time for a closer look. Let her know you’ll face this together.
A good rule of thumb: Does the behavior interfere with everyday life, or is it just annoying? Does Mom know what a key does? Or she is sure her favorite purse was stolen, yet it’s in her closet. Simple addition and spelling become difficult. Mom always paid her bills. Now, she ‘forgets to,’ so the power is turned off. Be aware: this is progression.
Does any of this sound familiar? How did you handle it? What worked?