Is It Dementia, or Just Aging? Early Signs and What to Do Next
- jenna624
- Jul 23
- 4 min read
Jenna Fralick, BScN RN
“Mom Keeps Repeating Herself—Should I Be Worried?”
You’ve noticed the changes. Your mom forgets names, misplaces the keys (again), or seems confused about what day it is. At first, you brush it off—everyone forgets things now and then. But somewhere deep down, you’re wondering: Is this just aging… or is it something more?
You’re not alone. Many adult children and spouses notice changes long before a diagnosis is made. And while the line between “normal” aging and dementia isn’t always obvious, there are signs to look for—and steps you can take today.
This post isn’t about panic. It’s about clarity, compassion, and planning. And if it turns out that your loved one needs memory care, it’s better to be informed early than overwhelmed later.
Normal Aging vs. Dementia: What’s the Difference?
Let’s start by clearing up a big myth: memory loss is not a normal part of aging. Occasional forgetfulness happens to everyone, but dementia involves changes that interfere with daily life (Alzheimer Society of Canada, 2023).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Memory is just one piece. Dementia affects thinking, language, mood, and even physical coordination over time.
10 Early Signs of Dementia to Watch For
According to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia (2024), early signs often include:
Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Difficulty completing familiar tasks (e.g., cooking, dressing)
Confusion with time or place
Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
New problems with words or writing
Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps
Decreased judgment or decision-making
Withdrawal from work or social activities
Mood or personality changes
Repeating questions or stories often
If you’ve seen more than a few of these, it’s time to talk to a doctor. You don’t need a confirmed diagnosis to start building a support plan.
Why Early Action Matters in Memory Care
Here’s the truth most people don’t hear until it’s too late: early intervention makes a huge difference.
When families wait until crisis hits—wandering, aggression, a hospitalization—it becomes harder (and more expensive) to get the right support in place. But when you start planning earlier, memory care can:
Improve quality of life
Reduce caregiver stress
Delay or prevent institutionalization
Create safer, more predictable routines
Support independence for as long as possible (CIHI, 2021)
It’s also easier to involve your loved one in decisions before the disease progresses too far. That empowers everyone involved.
How Memory Care at Home Can Help
Memory care doesn’t mean locking someone away. In fact, many families are choosing to keep their loved ones home—safely and supportively—with the right in-home care plan.
At Remember When HealthCare, our in-home memory care services are tailored to:
Support activities of daily living with dignity
Establish routines that reduce anxiety and confusion
Offer gentle redirection and emotional reassurance
Prevent common risks like wandering and falls
Provide consistent, dementia-trained caregivers
Whether your loved one is in the early stages or experiencing more advanced symptoms, home care for seniors with dementia can evolve as their needs do.
Learn more: HERE
But What If My Parent Refuses Help?
You’re not alone here. Many people living with early-stage dementia are in denial—or feel fearful, ashamed, or resistant to strangers in their home.
That’s why it’s important to:
Start the conversation early and gently
Emphasize support for you, not just for them
Introduce caregivers gradually
Focus on safety, companionship, and familiarity
At RWHC, we specialize in building trust with clients who are reluctant. Our caregivers aren’t just workers—they’re trained relationship builders who meet people where they are.
Why Families Shouldn’t Wait for a Diagnosis
Many people assume they need a doctor’s note or formal diagnosis before exploring support options. That’s simply not true.
Memory care planning can begin long before the word “dementia” enters a chart. And frankly, it should.
“Families who wait until burnout or crisis miss the chance to create a proactive plan. Early support isn’t a luxury—it’s prevention.” — Stephanie Redden, LPN, Care Manager, Remember When HealthCare
Even a few hours of weekly support can give caregivers space to breathe—and give seniors the consistency they require.
Your Next Steps: What You Can Do Today
If your gut says something isn’t right, listen. You don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to start asking the right questions.
✅ Make a list of changes you’ve noticed
✅ Book an appointment with a healthcare provider
✅ Start researching local memory care options
✅ Talk to your loved one with empathy and honesty
✅ Reach out to providers who offer in-home Alzheimer’s and dementia care
We’re here when you’re ready to talk it through. No pressure. Just support.
Conclusion: Early Clarity Creates Long-Term Comfort
Watching a loved one’s memory fade is heartbreaking. But what’s worse is feeling lost, unprepared, and alone.
Memory care isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about preserving quality of life, safety, and connection for as long as possible.
The earlier you ask questions, the more empowered your family will be.
👉 Reach out anytime HERE
You’re not overreacting. You’re getting ready.
References
Alzheimer Society of Canada. (2023). 10 warning signs of dementia. https://alzheimer.ca
Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. (2024). Understanding dementia. https://alzheimer.ca/ns/en
Canadian Institute for Health Information. (2021). Dementia in Canada: Summary and key findings. https://www.cihi.ca/en/dementia-in-canada
Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario. (2020). Dementia: Supporting and caring for individuals and families (Best Practice Guideline). https://rnao.ca/bpg/guidelines/dementia
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