If your senior loved one is exhibiting signs of dementia, it may be time to get them checked out. Dementia symptoms typically present in the form of confusion and memory loss. However, dementia symptoms can be attributed to other medical conditions that may need attention. If you think your loved one may be suffering from memory loss, but you aren't sure it is dementia, it could be one of the following reasons.
Reaction to Medication
Some medications can cause confusion in seniors. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medications. Medications that contain sleep aid ingredients often can result in confusion. Muscle relaxants are also known for showing similar symptoms to dementia. Certain medications used to treat anxiety and medication for bladder function are also problematic in some people. Discuss the usage of these medications with your loved one's doctor to determine if they are causing the symptoms they are experiencing.
Depression
Depression, sadly, is a common condition for many senior citizens. If they are lonely or sad about something in their lives, it can be symptomatic of depression. Depression and dementia often go hand-in-hand and can lead you to believe dementia onset is imminent. With proper medication and therapy, your loved one may be able to beat depression and lead a happy life.
Lack of Sleep
Seniors need appropriate amounts of sleep for good brain health and to ward off symptoms of dementia. When they do not get enough sleep, their brains are not going to function as well as they could. Many seniors suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. This is a common condition that occurs as people age and gain weight. This condition also comes with the risk of depression, diabetes, stroke, and elevated blood pressure. Even if your loved one does not have obstructive sleep apnea, they may not be getting enough sleep for other reasons. A sleep study may help identify what is causing them to not sleep well.
Infection
Infection is a common cause of confusion and delirium in senior citizens. They may begin to act completely out of character, which is common when a person suffers from dementia. Infections of the liver, kidneys, and urinary tract are among the most common issues that lead to confusion, but any infection must be treated properly. Once the infection is gone, you should notice a significant decrease in these symptoms.
Dementia is a serious condition that will have an impact on your loved one for the rest of their lives. However, you may be able to rule out a dementia diagnosis by getting your loved one proper medical treatment.
Reach out to a clinic that provides senior wellness care for more information.
Share25 May 2022
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