Signs of Dementia Over the Holidays

The holidays bring families together and offer a wonderful chance to reconnect and support one another. These times can also be important to notice changes in loved ones' health. With extra activity, visitors, and travel, some signs of dementia may become more visible, such as memory loss, difficulty problem-solving, confusion with time or place, or mood changes. If you notice these shifts becoming more frequent or affecting daily life, it may be time to explore memory care options that provide added support, safety, and peace of mind for everyone.

When visiting your loved one after a time away, the early signs of dementia may be more noticeable than if you see them on a daily basis. Symptoms do not always indicate the presence of this condition — some forgetfulness, for example, is a natural part of aging, and a loved one who has occasional memory lapses may not be experiencing dementia.

If your loved one experiences numerous signs of dementia, however, it may be time for them to visit a medical professional. While a dementia diagnosis is life-changing and can be devastating for families, many older adults and their loved ones find peace of mind partnering with senior living facilities, like assisted living or memory care residences.

The Alzheimer's Association developed the following early signs of dementia to provide caregivers with factors to consider when they visit home during the holidays.

• Memory Loss or Problems Finding Words or Images: Memory loss differs from dementia, but it can also be an early warning sign of dementia, especially if your loved one forgets things they recently learned and doesn't remember them later. You might also notice them struggling to recall familiar names of people or objects.
• Challenges in Solving Problems or Completing Tasks: Planning and problem-solving can be difficult for people in all stages of dementia. Your loved one might have trouble completing everyday tasks, like planning a meal or paying bills. 
• Confusion with Time or Place or Misplacing Items: Losing track of dates, time, seasons, or familiar places can signal dementia. They might frequently forget where they place an item, like keys, or show up to appointments on the wrong day.
• Trouble Understanding Visual Images or Spatial Relationships: Older adults with dementia commonly struggle with spatial awareness, which can affect their ability to navigate stairs and doorways, drive, and read. These challenges can make it more difficult for your loved one to adapt to new routines or function in unfamiliar environments. 
• Decreased or Poor Judgment: Your loved one may make choices that seem out of character or overlook responsibilities they once handled. They might skip routine tasks, like car maintenance or personal hygiene. 
• Changes in Mood or Personality, or Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities: Someone with dementia may seem more withdrawn or have swift changes in mood, which the holidays could highlight more than usual. They might become anxious about attending a family gathering they usually look forward to, or keep to themselves when present. 

It's hard to see someone, especially a loved one like a parent or grandparent, begin to display signs that could point toward dementia, but small changes in behavior may simply reflect normal signs of aging. If you suspect that a family member has begun to show signs of dementia, however, consider the following steps:

• Understand the Warning Signs: Our list above is a good place to start, and organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association offer online guides and information to help you learn about the illness and its symptoms. Local memory care communities may also be a good resource. 
• Observe and Document Their Behavior: Make a note of mood swings and/or instances of forgetfulness. Your records may be useful for any doctor seeking to help diagnose your loved one's issues.
• Keep Your Family Informed: Make sure other family members know what you've observed and see if they have the same concerns. Get all family members on the same page when arranging for your loved one's care.
• Talk to Them: Share your concerns in a loving manner and suggest that they visit their doctor to help determine what's going on. Offer to go with them and always remain encouraging and positive. 
• Be Patient: Remember that dementia can lead to irritability and denial. Your loved one may realize something is wrong and become frightened. Although you may feel frustration or anger, try not to show these emotions when you're with them.
• Consider Their Living Situation: If your loved one is still living in their own home, they may become a danger to themselves or others as the disease progresses. . Depending on their health and daily support needs, they may be safer in a community that provides additional care, whether that's assisted living, memory care, or a skilled nursing facility.
• Take Care of Yourself: Looking after an older loved one is a challenging job that can lead to caregiver burnout. Whether you are the primary caregiver or an auxiliary support person, try not to let worry over their care affect your own health.

The five-word memory test is a helpful tool for checking your loved one's short-term memory. It could reveal early signs of cognitive decline by showing how well they can retain new information after a short delay. Give your loved one a set of five unrelated words. Then, after a few minutes, ask them to recall the words. Recalling three or more words is generally considered a normal outcome. 

The five-word memory test can be a useful screening tool, but it’s not a standalone diagnostic for dementia. It’s most reliable when used as part of a broader cognitive evaluation that includes other measures of language, attention, and executive function. 

You may be able to help your loved one manage early-stage dementia at home by simplifying everyday tasks, such as paying bills or shopping for groceries. For example, automated payments can benefit seniors who might forget when bills are due, and online grocery services can have someone shop for and deliver groceries to your loved one's home. Also, ensure the home is safe by removing tripping hazards, like loose cords or furniture, and checking fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly, at least every six months.

Our dementia care survey found that 73% of caregiver respondents say their loved one receives care at home. But as dementia progresses to later stages, your loved one will likely require additional support, like memory care. These services are tailored to people with dementia, including secure environments, structured routines, and cognitive support. 

If you're considering options for your loved one, get support and guidance from a Caring Family Advisor by calling (800) 558-0653.

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