What ISN'T Dementia... Dementia is a complex neurological disease that takes many forms. What makes dementia even more elusive is its tendency to progress differently from person to person. While one person with dementia may show symptoms that involve memory problems, another may show irritability and trouble concentrating. It's important for families with older loved ones (especially those at a higher risk for developing dementia) to know the signs and symptoms of different forms of the disease, as well as what isn't cause for concern. Many symptoms of early memory loss can look a lot like normal aging. Without understanding diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia, it can be hard to tell the difference. Unlike normal aging, where a few forgetful moments are typical, the symptoms of dementia completely disrupt a person's daily life. In addition to memory problems, seniors living with memory loss experience a variety of cognitive and physical impairments that can in no way be considered normal. Joanne Rodda-Hubbard, Director of Memory Care at The Kensington in White Plains, NY, explains why understanding what is and is not dementia is so important: "When it comes to Alzheimer's disease and dementia, an early diagnosis is key to receiving the best possible care. Families need to educate themselves on symptoms of memory loss so they can be aware of the signs and recognize them early on in themselves or their loved ones. Being able to tell the difference between normal aging and memory loss can be valuable for early detection." Keeping Track of What's NormalIf you suspect that you or a loved one might be exhibiting early signs of memory loss, consider the comparisons between memory loss and normal aging. Thanks to the Alzheimer's Association® and other prominent organizations committed to spreading knowledge and awareness of Alzheimer's disease, trustworthy resources are readily available for families seeking advice on concerning symptoms.1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily LifeEarly Memory Loss: Forgetting new information or important names and dates, relying on memory aids and frequent reminders from family membersNormal Aging: Occasionally forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later2. Challenges in Planning or Solving ProblemsEarly Memory Loss: Having difficulty making a plan and following it, having difficulty concentrating, especially when working with numbers or step-by-step instructionsNormal Aging: Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook3. Difficulty Completing Familiar TasksEarly Memory Loss: Forgetting where an item is kept, how to drive to a familiar place, or how to play their favorite gameNormal Aging: Sometimes needing help to record a TV show or access a computer program4. Confusion with Time or PlaceEarly Memory Loss: Losing track of dates, seasons or the passage of time, forgetting where they are or how they got thereNormal Aging: Forgetting the date or day of the week, but realizing it later5. Trouble with Visual Images or Spatial RelationshipsEarly Memory Loss: Difficulty reading, judging distance or determining colorNormal Aging: Vision changes due to cataracts or low vision6. New Problems with Words in Speaking or WritingEarly Memory Loss: Having trouble following a conversation or finding the right words, making up new words, or stopping mid-sentence and not knowing how to continueNormal Aging: Occasional trouble finding the right word7. Losing the Ability to Retrace StepsEarly Memory Loss: Misplacing things in unusual places and not knowing how to find them, may accuse others of stealing from themNormal Aging: Misplacing an object, but retraces steps to find it8. Decreased or Poor JudgmentEarly Memory Loss: Mishandling money and giving away large amounts to telemarketers, ceasing to take care of personal grooming or appearanceNormal Aging: Making a bad decision once in awhile9. Withdrawal from Work or Social ActivitiesEarly Memory Loss: Removing themselves from hobbies and social situations, either because they have trouble remembering or are embarrassed by the changes they've experiencedNormal Aging: Occasional weariness of social obligations or the desire for some free time10. Changes in Mood or PersonalityEarly Memory Loss: Becoming increasingly confused, anxious, suspicious, fearful or depressed, may be easily upset around people and places that are outside of their comfort zoneNormal Aging: Becoming irritable when lifelong routines get disruptedAs you can tell, frequency and reason are good ways to tell if a loved one's behavior is due to memory loss or normal aging. Often, those with early memory loss make mistakes or misjudgments that seem unreasonable or bizarre. If you find yourself having difficulty justifying a loved one's actions, it could point to dementia. If you recognize any of the early signs of memory loss in yourself or a loved one, see your doctor right away for further evaluation. Ask the Experts"If you're ever unsure about a loved one's behavior, talk to their doctor right away," shares Rodda-Hubbard. "Untrained eyes may see memory loss where it's not, simply due to increased concern. Speak to a professional care provider to see if there's any cause to worry. If you would ever like advice from specially trained dementia caregivers, you are always welcome to reach out to our team at The Kensington. We're happy to answer your questions and help you find the solutions to your memory care needs." We Promise to Love and Care for Your Family as We Do Our OwnJoanne Rodda-Hubbard is just one of the many special people within The Kensington family - people who make life at The Kensington an enriching, fulfilling and enjoyable experience for all residents. The Kensington is an enhanced Assisted Living and Memory Care residence located in the heart of White Plains, NY. Here, residents are regarded as members of our own family, so hugs, laughs, companionship and patient support are routine parts of every day. We help our residents feel loved and secure by delivering heartfelt excellence in Assisted Living and Memory Care services in a warm, beautiful environment that offers comfortable elegance and is staffed by loving professionals. We believe the comfort of familiarity is precious, so our enhanced program enables us to offer care beyond what the traditional assisted living community can deliver. We offer a full spectrum of clinical support, rehabilitation, wellness and social engagement activities as well as end-of-life care. No resident needs to move out if their healthcare needs ever change. For those with memory loss, The Kensington offers levels of care in specially designed neighborhoods. Connections is for early-to-mid-stage Alzheimer's and dementia care. Haven is for mid-to late-stage Alzheimer's and dementia care. We understand that memory loss is a family affair, so our multifaceted program is geared to support not only our residents but also those who love them. Click to contact us for further information or call us directly at 914-390-0080.
