7 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Families in Durham Region Shouldn’t Ignore

Oshawa Senior Home Care  |  September 2, 2025

Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia affect millions of families across our country, including Durham Region. While occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, certain changes in memory, thinking, or behaviour may be early warning signs of something more serious. Recognizing these symptoms early can make a big difference in getting the right support and care.

Here are 7 early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia to watch for:

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

Forgetting names or appointments occasionally is common, but when memory loss starts interfering with everyday tasks, it may be more than normal aging. Repeatedly asking the same questions, misplacing items in unusual places, or relying heavily on reminders can be red flags.

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems

Early dementia can make it harder to follow a plan or work with numbers. Everyday tasks, like balancing a chequebook, following a recipe, or paying bills, may suddenly feel confusing or overwhelming.

3. Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks

Someone with early Alzheimer’s may struggle with routine activities they’ve done for years, such as driving to a familiar location, using household appliances, or remembering the rules of a favourite game.

4. Confusion with Time or Place

Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time is another common early sign. A person may forget where they are, how they got there, or think they’re living in a different year.

5. Problems with Words or Communication

Alzheimer’s often affects language. A person may stop mid-sentence, repeat themselves, struggle to find the right word, or call things by the wrong name. Conversations can become difficult to follow or frustrating.

6. Poor Judgment and Decision-Making

Declines in judgment can lead to unusual behaviour. This may include giving away large sums of money, neglecting personal hygiene, or making unsafe decisions that are out of character.

7. Withdrawal from Social Activities

Someone experiencing cognitive decline may withdraw from hobbies, social events, or family gatherings. They may avoid situations where memory lapses or confusion could be noticed, leading to isolation.

How Comfort Keepers Can Help

If you’ve noticed these changes in a loved one, you are not alone. At Comfort Keepers Oshawa, we understand the challenges families face when dealing with memory loss. Our compassionate caregivers provide specialized in-home care, companionship, and support for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia, helping them maintain independence while giving families peace of mind.

Want to learn more? Contact your local Comfort Keepers office today to discuss how we can support your family with personalized care.

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