How Do You Know if Your Dad’s Memory Loss is More Than Normal Aging?
Your dad called you and said you haven’t spoken in a while, but you just spoke to him that morning. He doesn’t remember that conversation, but he was just getting out of bed. He forgot where he put his glasses, and you finally found them in his bed. How do you know if his forgetfulness is just normal aging or something more?
Is It Happening Now and Then or Always?
Elderly Care Oakland, FL: Memory Loss
When your dad called you and forgot he’d already called earlier, does that happen consistently or now and then? If it occurs inconsistently, it’s not concerning. If the forgetfulness is constant, you should be more concerned.
It’s not always dementia, but it could be. Just don’t forget that stress and anxiety also make it easy to forget. If your dad called in a panic for some reason, he might lose track of who he called already and who he didn’t.
He’s Losing Items
Your dad can’t remember where he put his glasses. You found them in his bed. That’s the third time this week. If he is constantly losing track of his belongings, it’s a little more concerning if he forgets where he put something once in a while.
When he does lose track of something, can he retrace his steps? If he can’t remember enough to retrace his steps, it’s less likely to be normal age-related forgetfulness.
His Bills Aren’t Paid
Your dad had a lot of appointments this month. You notice he didn’t pay his electricity bill. His phone bill also didn’t get paid. Forgetting to pay a bill happens. It’s not necessarily a problem. If he’s received a stack of late payment or disconnection notices, that is more concerning.
He Doesn’t Know Where He Is or When It Is
Forgetting where you live is a common sign of dementia. If your dad recently moved, it’s understandable that he’d quickly lose track of where he is. Forgetting the day of the week or date is pretty common. If he can’t remember what year it is or can’t remember the date all of the time, that’s worth talking to his doctor about his memory loss.
Talk About Care Services as Early as Possible
Even if he is showing signs of dementia, there are other reasons for the memory loss. He might have a head injury after falling. It can be a side effect of his medications. He could have a blood clot in his brain that needs addressing. Depression, thyroid issues, and malnutrition can also cause memory loss.
As so many things can cause memory loss, he should see his doctor. It’s best to rule out other health issues than delay treatments. If it is dementia, some medications can slow the progression of the symptoms.
After talking to his doctor, make sure you have the right elderly care plan arranged for your dad’s changing health. If his memory loss is linked to dementia, he needs support as his disease progresses. An elderly care specialist can walk you through the available services and discuss pricing.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Elderly Care in Oakland, FL please contact the caring staff at Winter Garden Senior Home Care today. (407) 347-2050
Founder / Owner
Jennifer Talbot is the Co-Owner of Winter Garden Senior Home Care in Winter Garden Florida.The business opened on Plant Street in October of 2007 (formally known as Age Advantage).
Jennifer remains active in the business and enjoys personally meeting with families looking for professional, classy caregivers. She prides herself in taking the time to listen and appreciate the personalities and life experiences of people who wish to “age in place”.Her unique ability to match people with their ideal caregiver, combined with a strong sense of service is what makes her business so successful.
Mrs. Talbot is a current member and past president of the Winter Garden Rotary Club, past president of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, active West Orange Chamber member, Recipient of the “Spirit of West Orange” Award 2017, Past Business Networking International Growth Coordinator, Past Committee member and founder of South Lake’s HINT, sustainer member of the West Orange Junior Service League, past board member for AGED, advisory board member for Elder Advocates, a United States Air Force brat, and proud mother of two college graduates.
Rebecca Lanterman
Owner
Rebecca has worked in the Central Florida medical community for over 10 years.She is a native of Winter Garden, Florida andhas a driving passion to serve our seniors.It has been said that Rebecca never meets a stranger.Her experience has been in Hospice, Hospitals, Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Communities where she faithfully served as a community liaison helping residents and families understand the myriad of long term care and healthcare options.
Rebecca is the mom of a little guy who is the twinkle of her eye.She can often be heard telling stories of traveling all around the country pulling her camper.To Rebecca, to live life is to touch it and experience it.Growing up in Central Florida afforded her some unique experiences like being a part of the “Magic” at Walt Disney World where she was a Walt Disney World Spirit Ambassador.She feels that this early indoctrination by The Walt Disney Company helped her understand the true value of serving others.To this day, she still has some of that Pixie Dust.Rebecca has also accomplished countless marathons and triathlons. After the sudden loss of her dad, her training partner, in 2012 she stepped away from the sport.But, as time has passed and healing has taken place, she is back to pursuing their dreams again.This time, her dad, her trusty training partner is keeping pace in her heart.It is from that willingness and drive that Rebecca has a keen understanding of the arduous and often treacherous course that our families are on.And, she is here to come along beside you and be with you each step, each stride, and each hurdle.It’s the old adage “life is a marathon and not a sprint”.She is here along with the team at Winter Garden Senior Home Care to be a part of your journey.
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