Signs of Dementia

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1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

Forgetting recently learned information
Repeating the same question or story
Relying heavily on memory aids or family members for tasks they used to handle alone

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems

Trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills
Difficulty concentrating or taking longer to do things than before

3. Challenges Completing Familiar Tasks

Trouble driving to a familiar location
Difficulty organizing a grocery list or managing a budget

4. Confusion with Time or Place

Losing track of dates, seasons, or passage of time
Forgetting where they are or how they got there

5. Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships

Problems with balance or judging distance
Difficulty reading or recognizing faces

6. New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing

Struggling to follow or join a conversation
Repeating themselves or having trouble finding the right word

7. Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

Putting things in unusual places (e.g., keys in the freezer)
Accusing others of stealing when items can’t be found

8. Decreased or Poor Judgment

Giving away large amounts of money to telemarketers
Paying less attention to grooming or cleanliness

9. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities

Avoiding hobbies, social events, or work projects
Trouble keeping up with a favorite team or activity

10. Changes in Mood or Personality

Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious
Getting easily upset at home, at work, or in unfamiliar places

🧠 Dementia Caregiver’s Guide

🔹 1. Understanding Dementia

Learn about the specific type of dementia (e.g., Alzheimer’s, vascular, Lewy body).
Expect progressive changes in memory, behaviour, communication, and physical ability.
Know that every person’s progression is unique.

🔹 2. Establish a Daily Routine

Routines reduce confusion and anxiety.
Keep activities and meals consistent.
Include quiet times and safe, engaging tasks (e.g., folding towels, gardening).

🔹 3. Create a Safe Environment

Remove trip hazards: cords, rugs, clutter.
Install grab bars, night lights, and secure locks.
Use labels or signs on doors and drawers.

🔹 4. Communicate Clearly and Calmly

Use simple words and short sentences.
Maintain eye contact and smile.
Be patient—allow extra time to respond.
Avoid arguing or correcting unnecessarily.

🔹 5. Support Independence

Offer choices (e.g., “Do you want tea or coffee?”).
Break tasks into small steps.
Encourage doing what they can on their own, even if it’s slower or imperfect.

🔹 6. Handle Behaviour Changes

Understand that anger, wandering, or repetition may result from fear, confusion, or discomfort.
Redirect rather than confront.
Keep a journal to identify behaviour triggers.

🔹 7. Take Care of Yourself

Caregiving is emotionally and physically demanding.
Take breaks, get enough rest, eat well, and stay active.
Join a caregiver support group—online or in-person.
Accept help from friends, family, or professional respite care.

🔹 8. Plan Ahead

Discuss medical, financial, and legal wishes early (e.g., power of attorney, living will).
Explore long-term care options before it’s urgent.
Consider future housing needs and safety.

🔹 9. Use Available Resources

Local Alzheimer’s and dementia associations
Adult day centres
Home health aides
Memory clinics
Meal and transportation services

🔹 10. Emergency Kit for Caregivers

Keep a folder with:

Medical records and prescriptions
Emergency contact list
Legal documents (e.g., DNR orders, POA)
List of daily routines and preferences