If you suspect a loved one has dementia, it’s important to act quickly. Seniors Guide writer Eric Wallace explains why.
You’ve noticed your loved one having more mental hiccups. Maybe their keys and phone seem perpetually lost. Or drives to familiar places suddenly require directions. Or perhaps they trail off mid-sentence then ask what you were talking about one too many times.
Whatever the case may be, you’re worried. And those worries are justified: Persistent memory problems are among the most common warning signs of dementia.
According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, at least 55 million people now live with disease – and that number is expected to skyrocket to 139 million by 2050. Even more startling is Alzheimer’s Association research that showed deaths from age-related brain disease jumped by 123% during a 15-year period, even as deaths from other major causes such as heart disease declined.
Both organizations say it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as symptoms arise. On one hand, the visit could ID lookalike culprits like a thyroid problem or nutrient deficiency. On the other, it could bring an early diagnosis that helps your loved one get ahead of the disease and live a healthier, happier life in the long run.
Actions to take if you suspect a loved one has dementia
Here, we walk you through what to do if you think your loved one might be developing dementia and highlight the benefits of early detection.
Consult a medical professional to rule out other causes
Experts say there are many medical ailments that can mimic the symptoms of early or even late phase dementia. And the good news is: Many of them dissipate with treatment. But you have to visit a doctor to get diagnosed.
“Dementia-like symptoms can result from fever or other side effects of your body’s attempt to fight off an infection,” explains the Dementia Society of America. Mental cloudiness or even acute cognitive decline can result from illnesses like a urinary tract infection, meningitis, encephalitis, or Lyme disease. The same is true for immunocompromising conditions like leukemia.
Other common culprits are:
- Metabolic issues or endocrine disorders. These include uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes, an under- or overactive thyroid, high or low sodium levels, hormone imbalances, and an impaired ability to absorb vitamin B-12 (which helps your body create red blood cells, maintain a healthy central nervous system, and build DNA).
- Unexpected interactions between medications or adverse side effects from a new drug can cause issues like memory loss, mental fog, confusion, and delirium.
- Exposure to high levels of lead, heavy metals, carbon monoxide, and pesticides has been linked to dementia-like symptoms.
- Nutritional deficiencies. Issues range from something as simple as not drinking enough water (dehydration), to needing more thiamin or vitamin B-6.
- Subdural hematoma. This is the technical term for torn blood vessels between the brain’s surface and outer covering caused by a head trauma. Adults over the age of 65 are more susceptible to chronic bleeding from seemingly innocuous mishaps like a mild fall. The condition can lead to acute personality changes, memory problems, and mild or severe disorientation.
The point is, there are lots of potential causes for your loved one’s ailments. Identifying the source of the problem is the first step to a solution.
Why early detection matters
Experts agree that diagnosing dementia as soon as possible can bring significant benefits for patients, their families, and future caregivers.
“Early diagnosis creates options,” says the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians. “Not only does it give patients a voice to express their wishes, but it also gives them more time for lifestyle intervention, medication eligibility, and legal and financial planning.”
If you suspect a loved one has dementia, here are a few important doors opened by early diagnosis.
- Medication eligibility. While there’s currently no cure for dementia, there are drugs that can slow its progression. Two treatments, for instance, have been shown to significantly reduce cognitive and functional decline for people living with early Alzheimer’s. That’s important when you consider the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the disease accounts for 60% to 80% of all Alzheimer’s diagnoses. Early detection can also unlock eligibility for promising experimental drug trials or treatment plans.
- Lifestyle interventions. When caught early, simple non-pharmacological changes may be able to slow down the onset of the disease’s worst effects. Measures like controlling blood pressure, healthier eating, quitting smoking, increased regular exercise, and staying mentally and socially active can help preserve cognitive function longer.
- Decreased uncertainty. An official diagnosis gives patients an explanation for the symptoms they’re experiencing. That enables them to take control of their condition and work with loved ones to make plans around future care, financial matters, and treatment options.
- Better financial outcomes. If left undetected, dementia can lead to significant financial mismanagement. Studies undertaken by the Alzheimer’s Association have found early detection helps safeguard against both fiscal mistakes and outsized medical costs. That can save families as much as $14,286 a year.
