Indicators Of Brain Change
When things begin to change in the brain, it can be difficult to identify the root of the cause or if it is something of concern. You may find yourself asking, “Is this a symptom of normal aging?” or “Is it something of concern?” This article will discuss different ways to identify brain change so that can decipher the difference between normal ages and cause for concern.
Often families and loved ones notice changes in a person but because the changes are incremental, the changes can go unnoticed. This can lead to more severe situations. Below are some examples that may be helpful in alerting you to an important sign.
Indicators Of Brain Change
There are several indicators of the brain changing. Each indicator affects the brain in different ways, so it is important to pay close attention to an individual if you think they may be experiencing significant alterations in their brain.
Memory
- Forgetting simple tasks
- Repeating a story, action or tasks
- Looking to others to answer questions
- Forgetting directions
Challenges with planning or problem solving
- Refusal to use technology
- Lack of motivation
- Failure to understand simple mistakes
Difficulty starting, taking the appropriate steps, and/or completing a task
- Unable to count change or handing the cashier a handful of bills to pay for a small item
- Mistaking a location for something that it is not
Confusion of time and place
- Thinking it is time to go to work in the middle of the night
- Wanting to go home when they are already at home
- Being confused about the building they are in, for example; thinking the hospital is a prison
- Thinking they are at home while actually in a restaurant
Trouble understanding visual signs and spatial relationships
- Not understanding which direction an arrow is pointing
- Difficulty with traffic lights
- Difficulty placing items safely on a counter, table, or self
New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Difficulty finding a specific word
- Using vague words like “the thing”
- Talking around a word “you go down there then turn it on and go”
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Going into a building and not being able to find their way out.
- Putting car keys in the freezer
- Going to church and not knowing why they are there
Decreased or poor judgement
- Driving when they have had several accidents
- Spending money on unnecessary large purchases
- Contributing to online scams
Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Not going to choir practice because “no one knows how to sing”
- Not letting anyone in the house because people are stealing
- Withdrawing from a social or work group because “it’s boring”
Changes in mood and personality
- Becoming angry too often
- Dramatic swings in mood
- Laughing or crying for apparently “no reason”
- If sad, not being able to be comforted
- Speaking out at inappropriate times
All these are possible indicators of brain change. If you or your loved notice several of these indicators, we’d recommend you consult a doctor for further evaluation.
Orchard at Athens is Senior Living Community in Athens Georgia that is here to help families and loved ones when they notice changes. We have a trained staff and consultants that will help provide the support and guidance needed for people experiencing brain change. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule a tour, please contact us.
