Understanding Dementia: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help

Dementia is a condition affecting more than 55 million people worldwide. It’s a type of cognitive impairment that affects a person’s ability to think, remember, and make decisions. In Florida, cognitive impairment, including dementia, affects nearly 11 percent of adults 50 and older perceive themselves to have a cognitive impairment. Of those with dementia or other cognitive troubles, about 13 percent need caregiving assistance. 

Although dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment are not standard parts of aging, they are common. Developing a better understanding of dementia and the resources available throughout Punta Gorda and the rest of Florida can help you prepare or care for a loved one with dementia. 

Understanding Dementia

Dementia is not a single disease. It’s a word used to describe various conditions that affect a person’s cognitive functions, including memory, reasoning, and critical thinking. Some forms of dementia may also affect a person’s motor skills, emotions, and mental health.

Dementia Signs And Symptoms 

There are hundreds of types of dementia, but most have similar signs and symptoms. In the early stages of dementia, the signs and symptoms can be subtle, often being overlooked as normal forgetfulness or age-related challenges. However, as the disease progresses, signs and symptoms can hinder individuals' ability to care for themselves. 

Common indicators of dementia that are not a normal part of aging include:

• Having trouble recognizing familiar places or people 
• Getting lost in familiar places, such as the home or neighborhood
• Trouble recalling names of places, people, or things that should be familiar
• Repeating questions
• Having trouble comprehending simple directions or information 
• Trouble with balance, speaking, or expressing thoughts 
• Impulsive actions or emotions 

Dementia Resources In Punta Gorda

Dementia can be a physically and mentally challenging condition. Thankfully, resources are available throughout Punta Gorda that can help provide care and support to those in need. 

Support Groups

Whether you’re caring for a loved one with dementia or you have dementia, it can feel like it’s something you’re going through alone. Joining a support group is a great way to realize how many people face similar situations. It’s also a great place to develop skills and find resources to help you navigate dementia.

The Alzheimer's Association offers in-person and virtual support groups. The Gulf Shore chapter also offers various other resources for seniors with all types of dementia and their caregivers. 

Educational Resources

Medical experts are still learning about dementia. As new information becomes present, educating yourself about new signs, prevention measures, and treatments is helpful. A few helpful educational resources worth checking out include:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Discover evidence-based research for guiding public health practices regarding dementia
• Dementia Friendly America: Explore this national network of organizations and individuals, ensuring communities nationwide can successfully support people living with dementia and their care partners
• National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults: A national effort to increase the social engagement of older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers

Dementia Care At Visiting Angels

Caring for a loved one with dementia is hard work, both mentally and emotionally. It’s also not something you have to do alone. If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia, know the team at Visiting Angels is here to help. 

One of the many specialized at-home care services we offer to families throughout Punta Gorda, Florida, is dementia care. This care service ensures aging loved ones with dementia, including Alzheimer’s, are living safely and comfortably at home. Caregivers can assist with nonmedical tasks like housekeeping, transportation, medication reminders, wandering prevention, personal grooming, mobility, and more. 

Schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more about how our dementia care services can benefit you and your aging loved one.