Dementia is a common condition that many of us associate with memory loss. While dementia is often mistaken as a specific brain disease, it actually refers to the general range of brain diseases that impair memory and cause cognitive decline. While it is not possible to completely cure dementia, it is nonetheless important to identify its symptoms early on in order to make healthcare decisions that can mitigate the effects of cognitive decline and slow it down.
As we grow older, we are all susceptible to the various changes in our bodies and mind. It can be challenging to differentiate natural memory loss from dementia, which is a degenerative disease. Since the symptoms of dementia are similar to symptoms of other conditions, it can be doubly hard to identify what the root of the issue is. If you have noticed that your loved ones appear to be complaining more than before, it may be wise to take their complaints seriously as it could be an early sign of dementia. Find out how complaining and dementia are linked, and what other symptoms you should take note of.
Complaining Could Be An Early Sign of Dementia
Have you noticed that your loved ones appear to be complaining quite a lot recently? Do their complaints revolve around losing their keys, misplacing things, and missing appointments? While memory loss is a natural occurrence as we grow older, it can also be an early sign of dementia. Studies have shown that older adults who complain about memory issues have a much higher probability of developing cognitive impairment, even if they are not diagnosed with dementia. Therefore, it is important to take these complaints seriously and bring your loved ones for healthcare check-ups regularly.
In addition, complaining may also go hand-in-hand with mood swings, becoming increasingly irritated, and easily annoyed. This could indicate a change in personality, especially if your loved ones were never the type to be anxious or aggressive. If your loved ones suddenly start complaining about your actions or are constantly complaining about other people, it may be a symptom of dementia.
Other Symptoms of Dementia
Apart from an increase in complaining, whether about minor or major issues, here are some common signs of dementia:
- Finding it difficult to remember the right words
- Asking questions over and over again
- Inability to keep up with a conversation
- Becoming anxious and confused in a new environment
- Finding it challenging to concentrate
- Difficulty dealing with money
- Becoming unable to do familiar tasks
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