Everyone forgets. It's part of the reason we have an app for contacts on our smartphones! However, forgetfulness increases with age. In fact, 40% of persons above 65 years of age experience some form of age-related memory loss. That said, there is forgetfulness that results from natural ageing and forgetfulness that is a sign of the onset of dementia. Dementia is not a consequence of normal ageing and so, seniors suffering from a form of it can benefit from dementia care at an assisted living facility.

To help you understand whether your loved one is experiencing normal forgetfulness or cognitive impairment due to dementia, read on.

Telling signs of normal forgetfulness and dementia

This table, which is based on insights from National Institute of Aging (NIH), Alzheimer Society of Canada and HelpGuide, helps you draw a line between normal forgetfulness and dementia. While not replacing the role of a doctor, this table can help you become aware of the signs of dementia.

What to do if an elder has dementia?

Dementia does not have a cure at present, though symptoms can be managed with the help of medication. So, for progressive dementias, treatment may neither slow nor stop deterioration. With no Alzheimer's treatment available, you as a caregiver may not be able to keep up with the demands of the disease. In such cases you can consider an assisted living facility like Kshetra, so that your elder receives 24/7 personal care. This includes getting assistance from trained non-medical staff in basic tasks such as bathing, grooming, toileting, and dressing. They also assist with feeding healthy meals to seniors through the day. Though not a nursing home, Kshetra, through its Alzheimer's and dementia care programme, ensures that the elderly get a reviewed by a psychologist and are socially, physically and mentally engaged through activities such as:

• Simple exercises, physiotherapy and group exercises
• Games, singing and music sessions
• Puzzles, colouring and art and craft

Use the table above to spot the signs of dementia in senior citizens early. Should caregiving at home become challenging, turn to the elder care services in Hyderabad provided by Kshetra under the ambit of Heritage Elder Care Services, a Hyderabad-based organization that has been synonymous with elderly care for nearly 25 years. As you find out more about Kshetra’s Alzheimer's and dementia care services, do not hesitate to get in touch for personalised solutions.