Watching someone you love change in unexpected ways can be confusing and overwhelming. Small shifts in memory, behavior, or daily routines are sometimes more than normal aging. Recognizing the early signs of dementia and knowing what support is available can help families plan care, reduce stress, and improve quality of life for everyone involved.
What Is Dementia? Signs, Symptoms, and Causes
Dementia is not a single disease but a group of conditions that affect the brain. It leads to changes in memory, thinking, communication, and the ability to manage daily tasks.
Unlike the occasional forgetfulness we all experience, dementia symptoms interfere with independence and day-to-day functioning. People may struggle with remembering recent events, following conversations, managing finances, or completing activities they once did with ease.
Common causes include:
Alzheimer’s disease (the most common form)
Vascular dementia (linked to changes in blood flow to the brain)
Lewy body dementia and other neurological conditions
Risk factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle also play a role. While there is currently no cure, recognizing dementia early can make a big difference in planning support and care.
Important Facts About Dementia Every Family Should Know
More than 55 million people worldwide live with dementia (World Health Organization).
In Canada, an estimated 771,939 people are living with dementia in 2025 — a number projected to rise to almost 1 million by 2030 (Alzheimer Society of Canada).
Alzheimer’s disease makes up 60–70% of dementia cases.
Women are disproportionately affected, representing nearly two-thirds of Canadians living with dementia.
Indigenous communities face a rising risk, with cases projected to grow by 273% by 2050.
Family and friends provide over 580 million hours of unpaid care each year — a number expected to more than double by 2050.
While there is no cure, lifestyle factors like regular exercise, managing blood pressure, staying socially engaged, and eating a healthy diet can reduce risk (The Lancet Commission on Dementia).
Recognizing dementia in its early stages can make a world of difference. When families notice the first warning signs, they can seek medical support sooner, explore treatment options, and put care strategies in place that help loved ones maintain independence and quality of life for as long as possible.
Although symptoms can vary depending on the type of dementia, some patterns are commonly observed.
Memory Loss
One of the hallmark signs of dementia is forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events. This is more than normal age-related forgetfulness. Families can help by introducing gentle prompts like calendars, notes, and reminders, while avoiding harsh corrections that may cause embarrassment or frustration.
Difficulty with Familiar Tasks
Daily activities such as cooking, managing bills, or even driving may suddenly feel overwhelming. Breaking tasks into smaller, simpler steps and offering calm guidance can help loved ones maintain a sense of independence.
Confusion with Time or Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or even familiar locations can be unsettling. Tools like clearly visible clocks, calendars, and consistent routines (set mealtimes, regular sleep schedules, structured activities) help reduce anxiety and provide stability.
Trouble with Visual or Spatial Awareness
Dementia can affect depth perception, reading ability, and facial recognition. This impacts safety and mobility. Families can make adjustments at home. Improving lighting, reducing clutter, removing tripping hazards, and labeling rooms or frequently used items.
Language and Communication Problems
Loved ones may struggle to find the right words, repeat themselves, or lose track of conversations. Speaking slowly, using simple sentences, and allowing extra time for responses makes communication easier. Avoid arguing or correcting the person helps reduce frustration.
Misplacing Items
Placing objects in unusual spots (like the remote in the fridge) is common. When items are lost, loved ones may believe others are stealing them. Keeping essential items in consistent places, creating duplicates if needed, and responding calmly helps ease these situations.
Poor Judgment
Declining decision-making skills, such as unsafe spending habits or neglecting personal hygiene, can signal dementia. Caregivers can help by offering structured choices and gentle guidance while maintaining dignity.
Withdrawal from Social Activities
Losing interest in hobbies, social gatherings, or work may reflect both memory challenges and fear of embarrassment. Encouraging small, enjoyable social interactions such as music, puzzles, or light exercise can help maintain engagement and improve mood.
Repetitive Questions
Memory lapses may lead to asking the same questions repeatedly. Rather than showing frustration, families can use patience, reassurance, and visual reminders (notes, whiteboards) to provide comfort.
Incontinence and Personal Care Challenges
Some individuals may lose awareness of incontinence episodes. Gentle support, established bathroom routines, and discreet care can help preserve dignity.
Difficulty Recognizing People or Places
Not recognizing familiar faces or environments can be distressing. Keeping familiar photographs, personal objects, and consistent routines helps provide reassurance and a sense of safety.
Mood and Personality Changes
Anxiety, irritability, or depression may appear in the early stages. Emotional outbursts are not uncommon. Caregivers should track changes and respond with calm reassurance, while consulting healthcare providers when needed.
Problems with Planning and Problem-Solving
Complex tasks such as following a recipe or managing finances may become increasingly difficult. Breaking down tasks and offering gentle, proactive assistance can support independence.
Support and Resources for Dementia Caregivers
Caring for a loved one with dementia is deeply meaningful, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Fortunately, families in Canada have access to resources and support networks:
Alzheimer Society of Canada
- Provides education, support groups, helplines, and caregiver resources (alzheimer.ca).
Provincial Dementia Networks:
- Programs across provinces, including Alberta Health Services, offer workshops, counseling, and caregiver support.
Respite Care Services:
- Temporary care options, such as in-home support or adult day programs, give caregivers time to recharge.
Educational Programs:
- Online and in-person workshops teach strategies for communication, coping, and care planning.
Financial and Legal Guidance:
- Early planning ensures families are prepared with powers of attorney, government benefits, and long-term care options.
Caregiver Support Groups:
- Peer support reduces feelings of isolation while offering practical advice and encouragement.
Physical and Mental Health Support:
- Counseling, therapy, and wellness programs can help caregivers manage stress and avoid burnout.
Community Organizations:
- Faith groups, seniors’ centers, and volunteer networks often provide additional assistance.
Home Care Support Services
Home care services allow individuals with dementia to remain in familiar surroundings while receiving personalized care. These services may include:
- Personal Care Assistance – Support with bathing, dressing, grooming, and daily activities.
- Companionship – Social interaction to reduce loneliness and provide emotional comfort.
- Medical Support – Help with medication management, health monitoring, and coordination with healthcare providers.
- Household Assistance – Help with meal preparation, housekeeping, and errands.
Familiar environments help reduce stress and confusion. Tailored care plans provide comfort, safety, and peace of mind for families, allowing them to focus more on their relationships than on day-to-day care challenges.
Taking the First Step
Spotting dementia early and seeking help can make a significant difference in your loved one’s journey. Families do not need to face this challenge alone, professional dementia care provides both relief and reassurance.
BrightVoie Care Services specializes in compassionate, bilingual, and personalized home care in Edmonton. Through our Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) program, families can access flexible care options designed to meet their unique needs.
📞 Call us at 587-405-4020
📧 Email: info@brightvoiecs.com for a complimentary assessment.
Because every family deserves care that feels like home.