Managing Early Dementia: Young Adults’ Quick Guide

^{Doctor consultation for managing early dementia | Photo by cottonbro studio}

Forgetfulness? What if it’s more than that?

Whenever you get confused even in familiar places, have difficulties solving problems, or often misplacing things, maybe it’s time to seek professional help.

It may come as a shock to you that even at a young age, you can start experiencing the early onset symptoms of dementia. In fact, any or all forms of dementia can occur in people at the age of 14 or below.

Managing early dementia should start with a profound understanding of it.

Dementia is not a specific disease. It’s basically an umbrella-term description of a group of diseases affecting mental abilities, such as language, problem-solving, and memory.

Dementia Resources

You can get access to plenty of resources for caring for a parent with dementia or managing the early-onset stage yourself. But if you’re looking for a dementia help guide book, grab a copy of “Dementia Help Guide” – Vol 1 by Warren A. Patton. In his book, you’ll learn how to deal with a family member with dementia and more.

Although Warren Patton is not a medical expert, he is a concerned individual who has family members experiencing the symptoms of dementia. He is also directly affected by the early symptoms himself. But here he is, helping us manage dementia.

Early Signs of Dementia in Young Adults

Further research on dementia is still in progress. At this time around, young onset dementia (YOD) accounts for approximately 5% of all dementia cases.

Alarming, isn’t it? Let us also take into account that there are roughly 12,162 children under the age of 18 living with childhood dementia in the United States.

The challenge in managing early dementia is that the symptoms may occur, but we may not know that they already persist.

What are the signs of early-onset dementia in individuals under the age of 65?

1. Increasing Confusion

Do you often find it hard to navigate your home, the park you used to visit, or any familiar places? If you’re under 18 years old and having trouble recognizing a family member you always meet, or usually forgetting the purpose of common items, then you might be experiencing the early signs of young-onset dementia.

2. Communication Challenges

One of the possible early signs of young-onset dementia is finding it difficult to express your thoughts. Most people with dementia may have challenges in finding the right words to express their emotions or ideas. In some cases, they may also stop in the middle of a sentence, not knowing how to proceed with the conversation.

3. Poor Judgement

Cognitive decline, as a form of dementia, is another possible sign. Can you recall a situation where you’re unable to recognize a certain danger? For example, maybe you tried to walk across a busy street without waiting for the pedestrian light to go green. Or giving financial help to fraudulent syndicates.

This is one of the most dangerous signs, as it jeopardizes many aspects of your life.

Practical Tips for Managing Early Dementia

Despite having no cure, we can address the causes of dementia and manage its symptoms with professional help. Under the supervision of your health provider, you can manage early dementia through the following practices:

Cognitive Exercises

As early as now, you should engage in brain exercises that can potentially help boost and maintain brain function. You can try the following:

• Playing chess
• Completing puzzles, like crossword puzzles, jigsaw, and Sudoku, just to name a few
• Playing memory card games

Playing these games will make you realize that managing early dementia isn’t dreadful at all—that it can be fun, too!

Regular Exercise

Spare a moment for any physical activity. With your doctor’s advice, consider incorporating simple routines into your daily life. Perhaps you can jog a certain distance, brisk-walk in the morning, do squats and lunges, or simply walk.

Engage in Sports

Certain sports can exercise both the mind and body. Engaging in such sports activities may help boost sustained attention, planning, multitasking, and adaptability in changing situations.

Sleep

Sometimes, all you need to do is get enough sleep. Sleep can potentially improve memory recall, reduce mental fatigue, and regulate metabolism. It is recommended that most adults should sleep between 7 and 9 hours each night.

So, put on the blanket and savor the benefits of sleep.

Engage Socially

Stay connected with your friends. This will help you stay emotionally healthy. You can try joining support groups, online communities, or volunteer organizations. Or, as simple as eating out with friends will do.

You’re doing a noble job in caring for a loved one or patient with dementia. But what if you’re experiencing the symptoms yourself? If signs begin to manifest, seek professional advice immediately.

Managing early dementia is better than treating later-stage symptoms.

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Warren Patton

Warren A. Patton is a dedicated author and advocate for dementia awareness, best known for his book "Dementia Help Guide - Vol. 1."He offers valuable insights into the complexities of dementia and its impact on individuals and families. Warren's writing is characterized by clarity and compassion, making it accessible to both caregivers and those affected by the condition. He actively participates in community outreach and educational initiatives, striving to empower others with knowledge and support. Through his work, Warren aims to enhance understanding and improve the quality of life for those impacted by dementia.

Latest posts by Warren Patton (see all)

• Early Signs of Dementia in Loved Ones: A Guide - December 7, 2024
• Managing Early Dementia: Young Adults’ Quick Guide - November 11, 2024
• What Are the Causes of Dementia: A Deep Dive Into Complexity - November 6, 2024