Dementia refers to a group of symptoms stemming from neurological disorders. Although the most well known form of dementia, Alzheimer's, causes a severe deterioration in the level of functioning, not all forms of dementia result in Alzheimer's. Signs and symptoms of dementia vary from person to person, and the signs and symptoms may come and go. Knowing what to look for will provide a better understanding and tolerance towards those suffering from the disease.
Memory Loss
Everyone experiences slight memory slips now and again, but not remembering loved ones or not recognizing surroundings suggests dementia. Disorientation may last only a few moments in the beginning stages of the disease. Over time, the moments increase, and if a person is away from home and cannot remember the way back, bigger problems may occur.
Impaired Judgment
Little lapses in judgment, such as speaking inappropriately, increased swearing and strange coordination of clothing may be initial signs of dementia. Unusual behaviors that continue after a stroke or a urinary tract infection have been ruled out need evaluation by a medical professional. Cognitive decline in dementia may occur quickly or slowly, and as the disease progresses, daily living tasks may require assistance and monitoring, as dementia sufferers often display impaired judgment in financial matters, cooking safety and driving skills.
Depression
Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed by the dementia sufferer characterizes the depression associated with dementia. Persons suffering from dementia frequently replace favored activities with staring out the window, watching more TV or sleeping all the time. When prodded to engage in events, dementia sufferers frequently wish to stay home and not do anything. Hours may pass with them simply sitting.
Communication Limitations
There is often a reduction in vocabulary in dementia. One- to two-word answers to questions are common. Garbled words, difficulty in clear speech, sometimes completely ignoring requests or questions and repeating the same question several times, also characterize dementia's effect on communication, according to the National Institute on Aging.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Dementia
- National Institute on Aging: Dementia at the End of Life
- Mayo Clinic: Dementia
- "The Johns Hopkins Complete Guide to Symptoms and Remedies"; Simeon Margolis, M.D., Ph.D.; 2004
- "Pathophysiology: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses"; Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2005
