Blog > Why Should Your Senior Mention Memory Problems Right Away?

Why Should Your Senior Mention Memory Problems Right Away?

One of the situations that many aging adults fear is that they’ll develop dementia and that some of the memory issues they’re experiencing are actually a precursor to dementia or to Alzheimer’s disease. If she’s got a family history of either, then this might be a valid fear. Regardless, it’s important to talk to her doctor as soon as possible.

Small Changes Might Help

Regardless of the reason for her memory issues, your senior’s doctor might recommend some small changes that are easy to put into place now. Those changes might make a bigger difference than she thought possible. And if her memory issues aren’t because of something serious, these small changes might be exactly what she needs to improve her overall health.

If There Is Something Wrong, Early Treatment Is Best

On the other hand, if there is something wrong, it’s better to know as soon as possible. If your senior is dealing with cognitive issues like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, there are more options now for early treatment than there have ever been. Lots of those options aren’t available for people who are farther along in the disease’s progression. So, having a diagnosis early can be incredibly important.

She’ll Have Some Answers

It might sound silly to phrase it like this, but if your senior goes to her doctor and gets answers either way, she at least has some answers. The waiting and the wondering can produce a great deal of stress that is difficult to manage. Your elderly family member can turn herself inside out worrying about whether she’s got something huge looming on the horizon. Getting the answers reduces that stress immediately.

She Can Make Decisions Now

The flip side to having answers is that your elderly family member can make some big decisions now, while she’s still able to do so. Waiting and potentially getting into a much worse situation would mean that your aging family member wouldn’t be able to have as much control over what decisions get made. She may not be happy about her diagnosis, but she may be able to make some of the decisions about what happens farther down the line.

If memory issues are still feeling a little scary for your senior, it might help to have home care providers with her more often. This adds a layer of security that she’s not alone and that she’s got someone there, even if it can’t be you every moment.

If you or an aging loved-one is considering hiring Home Health Care in Fort Collins, CO, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home today at 303-255-4071.