Every September, the home care community bands together to provide support and knowledge surrounding dementia. It is important to challenge the stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The theme for this World Alzheimer’s Month is “know dementia”, which focuses on spotting early signs of dementia that lead to diagnosis and how to support thereafter. 

 

This year, World Alzheimer’s Day takes place on the 21st of September. The focus includes supporting all those affected by the disease and ensuring those struggling are not alone. At Complete Homecare, we offer in-home dementia care for patients that require assistance throughout the day. 

Why is World Alzheimer’s Month Important?

With approximately 50 million individuals suffering from the disease worldwide, dementia is one of the largest problems we face. So, in order to ensure the best care for dementia is implemented, we need to share knowledge and work together to create detailed and tailored care plans. Especially when it comes to spotting early signs of dementia.

 

Various businesses and caring facilities can get involved by organising or taking part in fundraising events. Or, why not show your support by posting to social media with hashtags such as #WorldAlzheimersMonth and #WorldAlzheimersDay? 

 

But first, what early signs of dementia should you be aware of?

Memory Loss

This is the main dementia symptom that people typically think of. Though the occasional forgetfulness shouldn’t be anything to worry about, early signs of dementia include a person continuously having difficulty recalling or retaining certain information. Even when they have just learnt it.

 

However, this may not affect their long-term memory. You might find that they remember their life in the 70s, yet cannot remember what they had for breakfast. 

 

Your loved ones could also find themselves getting lost in familiar places. Or, even having trouble completing tasks that they have been doing years before. These early signs of dementia may indicate it’s time to get a diagnosis and, if necessary, support for them at home. Complete Homecare provides in-home carers that tailor their routines to the individual’s needs. For more information, click here. 

Language Struggles

Early signs of dementia can also include trouble communicating thoughts. Dementia patients may struggle to articulate concepts or find the appropriate words to express themselves. Additionally, they could pause mid-sentence and be unsure of how to proceed.

 

It might be difficult to have a discussion with someone who has dementia, and it might take them longer than usual to articulate their views or feelings. This can also affect how they ask for help. If they are struggling with communicating, it can be difficult to grasp their situation and what level of support they require. With an in-home carer, they will create routines and stimulating activities to help with dementia symptoms and cater to their needs. 

Changes in Mood

With dementia, mood swings are also frequent. Although it could be difficult for you to identify dementia in yourself, you might detect this change in someone else. For instance, depression is typical in the early stages of dementia.

 

Early signs of dementia also can include patients appearing more afraid or worried than they did previously. If their typical daily pattern is altered or if they are placed in unusual circumstances, they may become quickly distressed. Once extroverts, dementia symptoms can include a change in mood where these once bubbly people become introverted and quiet.

 

Dementia Care Near Me

At Complete Homecare, we offer bespoke care plans that meet various individual needs, including those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other strands of dementia symptoms. It is important to spot early signs of dementia in your loved ones to ensure they receive the best support as soon as possible. Our in-home carers work closely with you and your loved ones to make sure the care plan is personalised and prioritises the patient’s well-being over everything else. 

 

For more information on our home care services, give us a call on 07955 460 847. Or, follow us on Instagram and see what we do directly on your feed.

 

If you’re interested in caring for dementia, Complete Homecare is always looking for skilled in-home carers to join our team. So, if you’re in Northern Ireland, check out our vacancies here.