Recognizing 5 Major Signs of Dementia in a Loved One

As people age, some begin to exhibit signs of dementia. Dementia includes a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and social skills and have an impact on routine functioning. While early diagnosis can help slow the progress of the disease, it is usually not curable. Here are 5 things to look for if you think a loved one may have dementia:

1. Memory loss and confusion. Individuals with dementia typically have compromised short-term memory. They may combine memories, or confuse people in the memories, but their long-term memory may still be sharp.

2. Mood changes. Some individuals living with dementia develop depression or strong mood swings. They can be happy one minute and very sad the next. These mood swings may often affect their disposition and personality.

3. Lack of balance. Dementia can affect physical movement and motor skills. Individuals can become accident-prone due to balance concerns and disorientation. Stumbling may become more pronounced, and a fall can be devastating.

4. Loss of comprehension. Individuals with dementia may ask the same questions repeatedly, and may also struggle with reading, writing, and following instructions.

5. Changes in eating habits and self-care. It’s not uncommon for individuals living with dementia to be unable to continue rituals of self-care and hygiene. They may forget to bathe or change clothes, or to brush their teeth and hair. They can lose interest in eating altogether, causing them to skip meals and become malnourished.

At Newton Village, Memory Care Assisted Living is available in addition to General Population Assisted Living. The entrance-controlled area is designed specifically for patients with Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss. Residents in the memory care area enjoy a private apartment, housekeeping, laundry services, chaplain services, activities and three daily meals. An RN completes an evaluation and unique service plan for each resident, and personal care services are individually tailored. Staff trained in dementia care are on-site 24 hours daily.

For more information, please contact:

Newton Village

110 N. 5th Avenue W

Newton, Iowa 50208

Ph: 641-792-0115

www.newtonvillage.org