How to recognize changes early and support your loved one with confidence

Caring for an aging parent or loved one can be both rewarding and overwhelming—especially when you start noticing changes that don’t feel “normal.” While occasional forgetfulness is a natural part of aging, Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia involve symptoms that gradually interfere with daily life.

Understanding the early signs can empower families to seek help sooner, improve safety, and plan for appropriate care. As a Private Home Care Provider, Devoted Home Care, LLC is committed to helping families recognize these signs and support loved ones with dignity and compassion.

Below are 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia that families should watch for.

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

Forgetting recently learned information is often one of the earliest and most common signs. This may include:

• Repeating questions

• Forgetting dates or appointments

• Relying heavily on memory aids (notes, reminders, family prompts)

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems

You may notice a loved one:

• Struggling to follow a recipe

• Having trouble managing bills or handling numbers

• Becoming frustrated by routine tasks that once came easily

These changes may indicate cognitive decline beyond normal aging.

3. Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks

People with early dementia may have difficulty completing tasks they’ve done for years, such as:

• Using the microwave

• Driving to a familiar location

• Following steps in a household routine

This usually reflects confusion, decreased focus, or short-term memory changes.

4. Confusion With Time or Place

A person may:

• Lose track of dates or seasons

• Forget where they are or how they got there

• Confuse morning for evening

This can lead to wandering or safety concerns if not addressed.

5. Vision or Spatial Difficulties

Not all dementia symptoms are memory-related. Some people experience:

• Difficulty reading

• Problems judging distance

• Misinterpreting visual information

This can increase fall risk—especially around stairs, curbs, or cluttered areas.

6. Problems With Words and Conversations

A person with dementia might:

• Struggle to find the right words

• Pause frequently in conversation

• Call objects by the wrong name

• Repeat themselves without realizing

Language challenges are a hallmark of cognitive decline.

7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

It’s normal to misplace keys—what’s not normal is placing items in unusual places, such as:

• A phone in the refrigerator

• Shoes in the pantry

• Mail in the linen closet

People may also accuse others of stealing because they cannot retrace their steps.

8. Poor Judgment or Decision-Making

Changes in judgment may include:

• Overspending

• Giving large sums of money to strangers

• Poor grooming or hygiene

• Falling for scams or risky offers

Dementia often affects reasoning and impulse control.

9. Withdrawal From Social Activities

A once-active person may suddenly:

• Stop attending church or community events

• Avoid friends

• Lose interest in hobbies

• Struggle to follow conversations in groups

This is often tied to embarrassment or fear of others noticing cognitive changes.

10. Changes in Mood or Personality

You may observe:

• Increased irritability

• Anxiety

• Suspicion

• Confusion

• Depression

• Uncharacteristic anger

These emotional changes are among the most difficult for families to witness.

Why Early Detection Matters

Recognizing the signs early allows families to:✅ Access medical treatment sooner✅ Improve home safety✅ Plan for long-term care needs✅ Reduce stress for both the individual and caregiver✅ Create routines that maintain independence as long as possible

How Devoted Home Care, LLC Can Help

At Devoted Home Care, LLC, we provide specialized support for individuals experiencing memory loss, including:

• Personal care

• Companionship and supervision

• Medication reminders

• Wandering prevention

• Safe activity engagement

• Respite care for families

Our goal is to help loved ones remain safe, supported, and respected in the comfort of their home.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve noticed any of these signs in someone you love, you’re not alone. Alzheimer’s and dementia progress gradually, and early recognition can make a world of difference. Contact a healthcare provider for an evaluation—and reach out to a trusted home care provider for support.

Devoted Home Care, LLC

📍 1755 The Exchange SE

       Atlanta, GA 30339

📞 (404) 333-86913

🌐 www.GeorgiaDHC.com