If you find yourself forgetting whether you've done something, even though you have, this happens quite often. You might start to wonder, "Am I developing dementia?" So how can you tell if the symptoms you're experiencing are related to dementia?

Dementia symptoms involve a loss of cognitive abilities such as memory, perception, understanding, language use, orientation, reasoning, and problem-solving. Changes in behavior and personality can also occur, potentially affecting your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The Office of the Health Promotion Fund (ThaiHealth) recognizes the importance of driving forward the government's Thailand 4.0 policy regarding the elderly in various aspects. In collaboration with the Thai Institute for Research and Development of the Elderly (TIRD), they conduct research and gather knowledge about the elderly both in Thailand and abroad, promoting the development of operational models for elderly care to improve the quality of life for Thai seniors, as well as disseminating knowledge and science about the elderly to society as a whole, in preparation for a fully aging society in the next three years.

10 Warning Signs Indicating the Risk of Dementia

1. Short-term memory loss that impacts daily routines, such as repeatedly asking the same questions, forgetting recent conversations, or missing important appointments.

2. Inability to perform previously routine activities, like forgetting ingredients for a meal or not remembering the order of steps in a recipe.

3. Language problems, such as using incorrect words, speaking incoherently, or struggling to find the right words.

4. Confusion about time, place, and direction, such as getting lost in familiar places or not being able to find the bathroom in one’s own home.

5. Poor judgment, such as making bad decisions or failing to distinguish between traffic signal colors, which could lead to driving issues.

6. Decreased reasoning abilities, such as being unable to solve complex problems or even simple math problems that were once easy.

7. Misplacing items, like putting the TV remote in the refrigerator or storing clothes in the kitchen cabinet.

8. Rapid mood swings, such as suddenly crying, getting angry, or showing indifference to surroundings.

9. Changes in personality, exhibiting behaviors that were previously uncharacteristic, such as becoming talkative when one was once quiet or wearing a sweater on a hot day.

10. Lack of creativity, appearing lethargic, apathetic, or zoning out for hours.

While some causes of dementia cannot be entirely prevented, caring for individuals with memory loss can help prepare for and reduce various risks:

1. Learn and understand dementia by taking care of nutrition and the environment. Read books related to dementia, consult with doctors, and attend training for caregivers. The more understanding you have, the better you can find appropriate solutions to arising problems.

2. Make living spaces safe by removing items that could cause accidents or fires, such as kettles, electrical plugs, and gas stoves. Ensure that furniture is stable and placed in well-lit areas.

3. Prepare a backup plan for personal obligations or illness. Everyone in the family should participate and not leave all responsibilities to just one caregiver. Other family members should take turns caring for the patient to allow the primary caregiver some rest or personal time.

4. Self-care is essential for being able to care for others effectively. We must first take care of our own physical and mental health.

As people age, some forgetfulness is normal. However, if you cannot remember recent events at all, you may be at risk for dementia, which can worsen over time. We can all slow cognitive decline by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, or by engaging in simple brain exercises like reciting prayers or singing. These are fundamental practices for self-care to prevent dementia.

Thank you for the information from www.thaihealth.or.th