Aging is growing older and as we grow older, we change. What does that mean? How do we adjust to deal with the aging process? There is no one fix or answer to this question. It is very individualized. Therefore, how do you help your aging parents enjoy the process and not feel like a burden? And do I need to be concerned that my parents have dementia and it is not natural aging? 

What is the Difference Between Natural Aging and Dementia?

It is common after the age of 65 that you lose some memory. Therefore, most aging adults with a good diet, exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation age pretty normal. Meaning, these adults might forget a few things, but they are active, social, and have their cognitive skills. However, if your aging parents leave the stove on, forget where basic items are or how to get home from the store, there might be a bigger problem. Also if they feel lethargic and isolate themselves, they might be on track for dementia. Dementia is a concern and what do you do?

What are signs of Dementia?

Oftentimes we wonder what are signs that mom or dad could have dementia?

If you notice any of the following signs, it would be worth getting an exam from your medical provider or take a cognitive test online to get a baseline and see if you are doing okay or if you have the beginning of dementia. 

Some basic signs include the following:

• Having difficulty managing money
• Forgetting things you just learned
• Forgetting common words
• Difficulty explaining a Story
• Change in personality 
• Confused on time and date
• Lack of interest in reading
• Skipping social engagements 

There are many types of dementia, and if you parents seem to have any of the above symptoms, it is a good time to start getting medical treatment or figuring out a plan on how to manage the memory loss.  Memory loss is common as people age, but if you think you or your loved ones have symptoms of dementia, get screened as soon as you can. If you have more questions or concerns about your aging parents, contact Ann Jamison at Senior Living Options. Ann is experienced with aging adults and how to find the best living arrangements for your parents at each chapter of the aging process. She has been a caregiver and has expert advice to help you have a positive experience while helping mom or dad move to the next chapter of living a full and purposeful life.

Author: Ann Jamison

Ann Jamison is an experienced senior advisor who has successfully worked with hundreds of families to help them find the best care and home-like environment for themselves or their loved ones. Prior to launching Senior Living Options, Ann was an eldercare advisor for a national placement agency and served as sales director at a senior living community. Thanks to her 25-year career in advertising sales and marketing, Ann is able to discern between hype and reality for her clients. Ann recognizes that there are objective factors that need to be weighed when making a life-changing decision, but she can also assess the important softer attributes by getting to know her clients and by using the gut instincts that can only come through extended experience.