Dementia is an issue that affects about 900,000 people in the country, and these numbers are expected to rise in the next coming years. While there is no true way to cure dementia, you should know that there are things that you can do to slow down its progress. And one of the best ways to do so is to catch the symptoms early. Let’s take a look at some of the early and advanced symptoms of dementia, and what you can do if you think that you or someone you love is starting to develop it.
What Are the Early Signs of Dementia?
One of the clear signs that you may be starting to experience dementia is if you suddenly start to lose short-term and long-term memory. We’re not talking about forgetting small things like your keys or the occasional phone number here. If you constantly forget why you went into a room, for instance, or routinely forget the faces and names of people you just met, then you might be dealing with the early signs of dementia. Other signs to watch out for include sudden mood changes, difficulty concentrating on everyday tasks, or simple things like having difficulty counting change when you’re out shopping, for instance.
What Are Some of the Serious Signs of Dementia?
Memory loss issues become more serious as dementia advances, and if you start forgetting things like what year it is or the names of people in your family, then you’re most likely either suffering from dementia or some form of Alzheimer’s. Communication and mobility issues are also very common in people with advanced dementia, and some people lose the ability to speak and walk altogether. Other symptoms of advanced dementia include incontinence, depression and aggressivity, and sudden weight loss, among others.
What Should I Do If I Think I Have Dementia?
The very first thing you should do if you think you’re starting to suffer from dementia is to consult a GP. Only they will be able to tell you what the issue is specifically and what should be done. You can also start taking steps right now to maintain your mental faculties. A combination of mental and physical exercise will work best here, and you may also need to look at your nutrition and make changes. If your diet is very high in fat, for instance, you have to make sure that the fats are of the right kind. Think fish and olive oil instead of steak and chips. And make sure that you prioritise sleep as sleep deprivation is one of the biggest contributors to dementia and cognitive issues in general.
Another thing we suggest you do is to start looking at a care home in Bury St Edmunds if this is where you’re located. Most of these homes will have a memory care unit that will provide you with the assistance needed depending on your level of dementia. And, if you’re still in the early stage, you can go for a facility that will allow you to have autonomy while still providing you with the oversight and security you need.
Dementia is an issue that a lot of us will have to deal with, and if you recognise some of the symptoms in this article, you should seek medical attention right away. Know, however, that you can still enjoy a great life with dementia if you take the steps necessary and take care of your brain and overall health.