Is Repeating Stories an Early Sign of Dementia?
No matter what your age, be on the lookout for these early dementia symptoms
Dementia is a condition characterized by cognitive decline and problems with memory, reasoning, problem-solving, language and communication abilities. It mainly affects people over the age of 65 but can be diagnosed in younger people, even in their 30s, 40s and 50s. Have you noticed your loved one is repeating stories and worried they might have early onset dementia?
Knowing the signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease makes it more likely you can spot the condition early. Although not curable, early treatment may help slow progression of the disease. Continue reading to learn more about the early signs of dementia and to understand if repeating stories is a common indicator.
9 common signs of early dementia
1. Changes in short-term memory
A person with dementia may have trouble remembering things that recently happened, even if they can easily remember things from the past. This may include forgetting what they were supposed to do, where they put objects, why they entered a room or how to complete tasks. Changes in memory may be subtle. Keep in mind that it is normal for memory to diminish with age and memory changes alone don’t mean you have dementia.
2. Communication difficulties
It can be difficult for someone with dementia to express their thoughts and feelings. They may not be able to find the right words, may stop in the middle of a sentence and not know how to continue or may find it hard to express what they want to say.
3. Inability to complete tasks or learn new things
Another sign of dementia is that a person may have difficulty completing tasks they used to be able to do, like paying bills, playing a game or following a recipe. They may also have a hard time learning new things and may become agitated if they have to follow new routines.
4. Finding it hard to follow along
It can be difficult for someone with dementia to follow what’s going on in a conversation or what they hear or see on television. It can also be hard to follow directions or step-by-step instructions.
5. Repeating stories or tasks
The person may often repeat themselves. They may ask the same question over and over, tell the same story repeatedly or do a task even if it’s already been done, like brushing their teeth. They may also obsessively collect items.
6. Fear of trying new things
People with dementia crave routine and prefer to avoid new situations. They have difficulty adapting to change and do best when things remain the same.
7. Loss of interest
A common early sign of dementia is losing interest in doing things the person used to enjoy. They may not want to go out or be around people and may seem emotionally flat.
8. Lack of judgment
A person with dementia may start to lose their ability to make good decisions. This can cause them to do things that are dangerous, such as walking across the street without looking for oncoming traffic.
9. Mood changes
It’s not uncommon for a person with dementia to feel depressed, anxious, stressed or fearful. There may also be other personality changes as the condition progresses.
What should I do if I notice any of these symptoms?
The symptoms listed above do not solely indicate that you or your loved one have dementia. Several of these can be caused by various factors including stress, depression, or other medical conditions. It is best to consult your doctor if you notice any of these changes in yourself or your loved one.
How does Ethos support those living with dementia?
Ethos Home Health Care and Hospice can provide care and support for individuals living with dementia or other forms of memory loss as well as their families. Our home health care team consisting of nurses, therapists, and aides can assist with activities of daily living, medication management, physical, occupational, or speech therapy, and more to help maintain independence and quality of life.
The Ethos Hospice team is trained to deal with the unique symptoms and challenges of memory loss to enhance quality of life for individuals at the end stages of dementia. Specialized services include pain and symptom management, therapeutic music, pet therapy, companionship, specialty Veteran care, and more.
To learn more about our services and eligibility, fill out our form, or contact our team at (701) 515-0696.
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Date Last Reviewed: April 18, 2024
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
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Published on June 10th, 2024
