How the Holiday Can Help Spot Early Signs of Dementia
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and shared traditions. It’s a holiday that brings us together to reflect on the good in our lives, including health, home, and loved ones. But as we gather with family, especially seniors, it’s also an opportunity to check in on their well-being—both physical and cognitive.
If you’ve noticed small, subtle changes in your senior loved ones during past holiday gatherings, you’re not being paranoid. These observations could be an early indicator of dementia, and catching it early can make a world of difference.
Thanksgiving with Seniors: A Time for Connection
Thanksgiving often brings families together after months or even years apart. It’s a cherished time to reconnect with parents, grandparents, and other relatives.
While the holiday is typically filled with laughter, storytelling, and tradition, it’s also a chance to notice how your loved ones are doing. Because adult children often live far from their parents, they may not see the gradual changes in their health or behavior.
Early Signs of Dementia: What to Watch For
It’s not unusual to see subtle behavioral changes in seniors during Thanksgiving gatherings. A moment of forgetfulness or misplaced items may seem insignificant, but it’s worth paying attention to patterns. Here are some early signs of dementia you might observe:
- Difficulty recalling common words (e.g., calling a “thermometer” a “thingy”).
- Misplacing everyday items in unusual locations (e.g., putting ice trays in a closet).
- Confusion during routine tasks.
- Mood changes or moments of frustration in familiar settings.
These signs don’t necessarily mean your loved one has dementia, but they can indicate a need for further exploration.
Why Early Detection of Dementia Matters
Identifying dementia in its early stages allows families to act quickly, ensuring seniors receive the care they need while maintaining as much independence as possible.
A Real-Life Story:
One of our team members noticed subtle signs of dementia in their grandmother during Thanksgiving. While she was lucid, engaging, and even cooked dinner, small moments stood out:
- She mistakenly placed ice cube trays in a closet.
- She struggled to recall a simple word during conversation.
Initially, our team member doubted their observations, brushing them off as paranoia. But after consulting with the family, they gently encouraged their grandmother to see a doctor. The diagnosis confirmed early-stage dementia.
The Silver Lining: Because the condition was caught early, their grandmother could stay in her home with in-home memory care support. This proactive approach allowed her to maintain her lifestyle and independence for longer.
You’re Not Paranoid: Trust Your Instincts
Thanksgiving is more than a holiday—it’s an opportunity to ensure your loved ones are thriving. If you notice behaviors that seem unusual, don’t dismiss them. Small signs, when addressed early, can prevent greater challenges down the road.
Here’s how you can approach the situation:
- Observe Carefully: Take note of any behaviors that seem out of character.
- Consult the Family: Share your observations with siblings or close relatives.
- Start the Conversation: Gently discuss your concerns with your loved one.
- Seek Professional Help: Encourage a doctor’s visit for a cognitive assessment.
A Thanksgiving Gift of Care
Thanksgiving is about gratitude, and one of the greatest gifts you can give your senior loved ones is the care and attention they deserve. By addressing potential signs of dementia early, you can help ensure they receive the support they need to live comfortably and independently for as long as possible.
If you’re seeking guidance on memory care or senior housing options, Concierge Care Advisors is here to help.
Contact us today to explore care solutions tailored to your loved one’s needs.
