Living with a spouse or partner is a beautiful journey filled with shared memories and familiar routines. But as time goes by, changes are inevitable. One such change that can be particularly unsettling is the possibility of early dementia. Here, we’ll explore some of the early signs to watch for, how to cope with the emotional impact, and steps you can take for medical evaluation, legal planning, and future financial security.
Recognizing the Signs of Early Dementia:
Dementia is a general term for memory loss and cognitive decline that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form. Early signs can be subtle, so vigilance is key.
Common Early Dementia Indicators
Memory Lapses: Forgetting recent conversations, misplaced items becoming a regular occurrence, or difficulty remembering appointments are all potential red flags.
Challenges with Familiar Tasks: Activities your spouse once did effortlessly, like managing finances or following a recipe, may become confusing.
Changes in Communication: Struggles to find the right words, difficulty following conversations, or relying on repetitive phrases can signal underlying issues.
Disorientation and Confusion: Getting lost in familiar places, forgetting the date or time, or difficulty understanding the passage of time are concerning signs.
Personality Shifts: A normally outgoing spouse becoming withdrawn, or someone calm becoming easily frustrated are potential indicators.
Coping with the Emotional Impact of Early Dementia Onset
A diagnosis of dementia can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for coping:
Educate Yourself: Learning about dementia can help you understand the changes your spouse is experiencing and plan.
Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or join a support group. Sharing your experience with others who understand can be invaluable.
Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is crucial. Make time for activities you enjoy and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Act Now!
Schedule a Medical Evaluation: A doctor can perform a cognitive assessment and rule out other causes for the symptoms. Early diagnosis allows for treatment planning and better management of the disease.
Estate Planning: Update your financial durable powers of attorney, health care directives and revocable living trust. Include specific powers in the documents regarding care for either partner, or for what happens if there is a diagnosis of dementia of one of the partners.
Financial Planning: Discuss long-term care options and their associated costs with your spouse and a financial advisor to create a plan that meets your needs.
Remember: You are not alone. Dementia is a progressive disease, but with knowledge, support, and planning, you can navigate this journey with your spouse and ensure their well-being.
Additional Resources
Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/
National Institute on Aging: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-and-dementia
The Family Caregiver Alliance: https://www.caregiver.org/
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any questions or concerns regarding your spouse’s health.
About Walnut Creek Elder Law in Walnut Creek, California
Michael J. Young is an experienced elder law, estate planning and asset protection planning attorney in Walnut Creek, CA. Mr. Young advises his clients regarding their estate planning needs with an emphasis on asset protection, Medi-Cal qualification, and preservation of assets for various levels of their care as they get older. Mr. Young’s journey into elder law began when his mother suffered from an acute injury that required her to be in a skilled nursing facility. He is co-author of the book, Don’t Go Broke in A Nursing Home and is the author of the “Alzheimer’s Legal Survival Guide.” Mr. Young presents monthly workshops in Walnut Creek regarding estate planning, asset protection, and Medi-Cal planning. He has helped many clients over the years successfully qualify for Medi-Cal and has protected their assets from state recovery. Call today to schedule a consultation (925) 256-0298.