Everyone has experienced the frustration of losing or forgetting where they put their keys. A “senior moment” is something that happens to everyone.
Yet for some people as they become older, persistent forgetfulness might be a red flag that something is wrong. Some seniors are experts at deflecting questions with canned responses like “you know what I mean,” “of course, I took my medicine,” and similar phrases when they’re put on the spot.
They may get hostile or confrontational if you question them and they think that you don’t trust them. Both parties are having a hard time. So, what signs should we look out for?
The following are some of the most often seen symptoms of cognitive decline or memory loss in adults:
- Confusion in instances when they had previously functioned normally, such as remembering appointments or social events.
- Being overwhelmed by what used to be a little decision, such as what to order for dinner.
- Difficulty following the course of a discussion or initiating a conversation with others, which may result in social isolation.
- They have difficulty navigating familiar surroundings such as their neighborhood.
- Expressing frustration with their inability to accomplish things such as meal preparation or bill payment that they used to do quite effortlessly without assistance.
It’s difficult to accept that a loved one on whom you’ve always depended may be suffering from cognitive decline.
The best course of action would be to seek medical treatment for your loved one and have them assessed.
A general diagnostic for memory function loss is made using a series of thinking, memory, and language tests. There is an increased risk even if not all cases proceed to more severe illnesses like dementia or Alzheimer’s.
IKOR helps families prepare for and deal with these particular circumstances. Early intervention is essential if you want to preserve your loved one’s dignity and quality of life.
We support families and their loved ones in identifying and preparing for changes in their health, living conditions, and financial restrictions as they age. We can help you prepare for or deal with issues that will help you avoid the sorrow of an unanticipated crisis, which imposes undesirable choices and higher expenditures, as well as the danger of further diminishing your loved one’s dignity and quality of life.
Sometimes a hearing aid is all that is required. Often a doctor may recommend medication to help a patient’s cognitive function. Please contact us at 855-456-7972 or visit our website at www.ikorofwpa.com if you’d like more information about how IKOR might assist you or your family members in managing cognitive decline.
