Want to forget... but end up remembering. Want to remember, but huh! Why can't I remember? 
Dementia in the elderly is a condition caused by gradual abnormalities in multiple aspects of brain function, resulting in deterioration of memory, reasoning comprehension, analytical thinking, and self-control.
The most common cause of dementia in older adults is Alzheimer’s disease, which currently cannot be completely cured. Therefore, medical care must focus on adapting the patient’s environment to be safe and helping relatives or caregivers cope with the patient’s changing behaviors.
10 warning signs that may indicate an older adult is beginning to develop dementia include:
- Asking the same questions repeatedly; continuously forgetting recent stories or events while still remembering old ones well.
- Unable to do things in the correct sequence of steps, such as forgetting the steps for making a payment at the bank or when driving.
- Having difficulty working or doing familiar activities, whether at home or at work.
- Confused about people, day/date, time, or place.
- Often has trouble understanding what is seen and does not connect vision with decision-making well, e.g., finding it harder to judge distance; placing something on a table but often letting go before it reaches the table; unable to recall the names of objects seen; getting lost; or having frequent car accidents.
- Feeling difficulty using appropriate words when speaking or writing, such as often pausing during a conversation and not knowing what to say next, or repeatedly saying the same words or sentences.
- Leaving things in places where they should not be and being unable to recall where they were placed, such as putting shoes in the refrigerator.
- Reduced or lost ability to make decisions; neglecting personal hygiene and the cleanliness of one’s living space, such as when going to an important event but being unable to decide what to do for oneself—not doing one’s hair, not bathing.
- Withdrawing from work or from activities one used to enjoy.
- Changes in mood and personality, such as appearing confused, anxious, fearful, or depressed.
Information Center
Samitivej Sriracha Hospital
For more information
Tel. 038-320-300
25 December 2023
