Signs of Memory Loss and When to Seek Memory Care Support
Everyone forgets their keys at home or stumbles over their words occasionally. However, seniors’ loved ones must distinguish between these “everyday” errors and the symptoms of memory loss diseases. Since conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease progressively worsen, early detection and monitoring are crucial to treatment. You can ensure the best care for your loved one by recognizing the signs of chronic memory loss and exploring memory care support options.
At Tysons Woods Assisted Living, our attentive dementia care specialists ensure that changes in behavior don’t go unnoticed. Our Tysons, VA, living communities provide residents with a welcoming environment that encourages flexible lifestyles. Indeed, our caregiving staff is dedicated to meeting residents’ mental, physical, and emotional needs. Call (703) 846-0395 today and schedule a pre-admission assessment to see if Tysons Woods is right for your loved one.
Below, we outline when to consider memory care:
Signs of Memory Loss
While absentmindedness is a natural part of aging, other signs may suggest a deeper issue. A neurologist should review symptoms to diagnose your loved one’s condition properly, but early symptoms of declining memory in seniors may include:
- Difficulties with Familiar Routine
Elderly individuals with memory loss may struggle with tasks they’ve done for years, like following a recipe, driving, or using familiar appliances.
- Changes in Behavior
Seniors with declining cognitive function may become withdrawn, suspicious, or irritable. Some may suffer sudden mood swings and act out of character.
- Neglecting Hygiene
Memory lapses can also include poor personal care. For example, a senior may forget how to do household chores or struggle to bathe themselves.
- Disorientation and Confusion
Seniors with early dementia may become confused about time, place, and even their identity. They can get lost in familiar places or struggle to recall what day it is.
- Forgetting Recently Learned Information
Some of the common early signs of Alzheimer’s disease include forgetting important dates or events, asking the same questions repeatedly, or failing to follow conversations.
When to Seek Full-Service Senior Memory Care
Although there’s no single correct answer, repeated symptoms can indicate that senior memory care is the best course of action for your loved one’s safety and well-being. For instance, consider memory care if your loved one’s forgetfulness has become a danger to themselves or others. This could include forgetting to take medication, leaving appliances on unattended, or wandering away from home and getting lost.
If you worry constantly about your senior’s safety due to forgetfulness, you may need to explore a secure environment with specialized care. Memory care facilities provide a structured and supervised setting, providing peace of mind and the support your loved one needs.
Visit Memory Care Support Specialists in Tysons, VA
The decision to seek senior memory care support can be a difficult one, often filled with a mix of emotions. At Tysons Woods Assisted Living, we strive to make the transition to our community seamless for seniors and their families. Whether your loved one needs Alzheimer’s care support, end-of-life care, or an independent living community, our Tysons, VA, location can provide it all. Schedule a facility tour today by visiting us online or calling (703) 846-0395.