Changes in a senior’s behavior aren’t always indicative of dementia or other serious conditions. In fact, there are a number of marked differences family caregivers can expect to see in their aging loved ones’ personalities as time goes by. To ensure your loved one remains healthy and happy, it’s important to know which changes are normal and which may require attention.
Forgetfulness
Everyone has difficulty calling specific words to mind or remembering where they’ve put their car keys from time to time. Occasional forgetfulness is simply a fact of life, and it’s likely to increase with age. However, forgetting things may signify a problem if your loved one is no longer able to remember where he or she is going or how to get home or if he or she cannot recognize close relatives and friends.
Suspicion
One of the common signs of Alzheimer’s disease is suspicion. Seniors who have this illness often misplace their own items and then accuse others of stealing them. This is largely related to their increasing sense of disconnection. However, aging adults who don’t have Alzheimer’s can still become fiercely protective of their personal space and belongings. Getting older can bring on feelings of vulnerability, and many seniors are afraid of having to leave their comfortable and familiar environments. Talking with your loved one about his or her feelings and offering words of assurance can alleviate fears concerning personal independence, preferred living arrangements, and the need for home care. It’s vital to note that although you might think you know what’s best for your loved one, you should let him or her make decisions as long as he or she maintains the cognitive ability to do so.
If your elderly loved one is living with Alzheimer’s and needs help managing the symptoms, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s care. Richmond seniors can rely on our revolutionary Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program that promotes cognitive health and delays the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. CTM also encourages seniors to engage with others in an enjoyable way and helps them build new routines to look forward to.
Depression
Emotions like anxiety and depression aren’t uncommon at this stage of life. While most people hope to have everything figured out by the time they reach their golden years, this is actually a time that can be fraught with a number of new and overwhelming challenges. Living on a fixed income, experiencing marked changes in vision, mobility, and overall health, and losing close friends can be both mentally and emotionally taxing. However, if your loved one is consistently depressed, this could be a sign he or she is spending too much time in isolation. Regularly check on your loved one to ensure he or she is maintaining a balanced and active social life.
The regular companionship of a home caregiver can help your loved one alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. At-home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
Agitation
Seniors who were once known for having incredible patience may become easily agitated or short-tempered. Even with good health, seniors are prone to experience changes in cognitive function. They can also develop a number of persistent physical aches and pains. These changes can make it difficult to keep up with fast-paced conversations or remain comfortable for long periods in crowded rooms with a lot of noise and distractions. Check on your loved one when he or she becomes agitated to ensure he or she has adequate plans for handling physical and mental discomfort. It’s also important to schedule doctor visits whenever behavioral changes are drastic and indicate a waning ability to practice good self-care.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Richmond, VA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you need compassionate professional care for your loved one, call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.