3 Signs That Your Elderly Parent Has Dementia Or Alzheimer's Disease

As your parent starts to get older, it can be natural to assume that changes in behavior are due to aging. However, sometimes behavior changes are due to the development of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. If you don't know what signs to look for, your parent may not receive the right care and that can have a negative effect on their quality of life. Here are three signs that your elderly relative might have Alzheimer's or dementia.

Repetition

One of the most recognizable signs that there are changes in brain function is that your elderly parent will start to repeat themselves. Memory suffers if someone has dementia, and your parent may start telling you the same stories over and over, or seek to start the same conversation they had with you a few minutes prior.

Repetitive behavior is also a sign that something is amiss. If your parent checks the locks often or checks their eyes for their glasses often, that can be a sign that their brain function is beginning to change.

Changes in Hygiene

People who are developing dementia and Alzheimer's can sometimes forget to take care of their hygiene needs. If your stylish elderly parent starts wearing the same outfit every day for a week, that could be a sign that something is changing. If you notice that they are not showering or cutting their nails, these can be signs that they are simply not remembering to do these tasks, or it can mean that they no longer even think of the tasks at all. You may need to remind them to do these things.

Sleep Changes

While elderly people often have changes in their sleep patterns, sometimes that can be a sign that your parent is developing problems with their brain function. Alzheimer's disease and dementia can cause your parent to become tired often and remove their desire to go about their daily activities, so you may discover that they are sleeping during the day and then staying up all night. Try to help them develop a routine that will allow them to move about during the day so that they can sleep through the night and get the proper rest.

If you think your parent is exhibiting any signs of the behaviors above, talk to their doctor about whether they may have Alzheimer's disease or dementia. They may recommend home care from a company like ComForcare Home Care - South Orange County and other ways to help you care for your parent, so they can remain safe and healthy.


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