We all change and grow as we age. However, when an older loved one begins to show significant shifts in behavior and mood, it can signal your loved one may need additional support.
Often, these notable personality changes can be early signs of cognitive decline. If a parent is living with dementia, they might experience a range of challenges, including unfamiliar behaviors, difficulties with thinking and communication, and memory problems.
Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take. By understanding and addressing these changes, you can help yourself and your parent navigate this new chapter, ultimately protecting their well-being and preserving your bond.
What Is Cognitive Decline, Exactly?
Cognitive decline refers to the gradual deterioration of brain function. The degeneration develops due to underlying conditions that damage structures throughout the brain.
As these conditions worsen, they damage more and more regions of the brain, leading to strange symptoms that quickly affect a person’s everyday life.
Some common causes of cognitive impairment in older adults include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Depression, anxiety, & chronic stress
- Sleep disorders
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Stroke
Many people think cognitive decline only impacts memory. However, cognitive function affects all aspects of your health, including mood, behavior, and thinking.
How Cognitive Decline Influences Personality
When cognitive decline impacts certain parts of the brain, your loved one’s personality, behavior, and emotional regulation may also change.
Your parent or loved one can experience:
- Increased irritability or frustration
- Anxiety or depression
- Lack of motivation or apathy
- Impulsivity or poor decision-making
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Increased confusion or paranoia
These may change how your loved parent interacts with the world around them. They may become easily frustrated or irritated, leading to strange personality changes. Though frustrating, this is a common sign of cognitive decline.
Common Personality Changes in Older Adults
Personality changes caused by cognitive decline often feel confusing and unexpected. You may feel these new behaviors seem unlike your parent’s former self.
Increased Childlike Behaviors
Some older parents begin showing behaviors that resemble those of children. The response can stem from declining memory and reasoning skills as cognitive decline progresses. For many, childlike behaviors represent a need for comfort, reassurance, and security.
These challenges can worsen when stressful situations arise, triggering attention-seeking or tantrum-like outbursts when frustrated. The transition to a new home, reduced independence, or a change in social connections can leave older adults feeling uncertain.
Irritability or Grumpiness
Aging adults can also become increasingly grumpy or irritable for several reasons. Physical discomfort from chronic conditions or medication side effects can impact mood and cause agitation.
Meanwhile, the struggle to maintain independence while coping with cognitive decline can often leave your loved one feeling frustrated or overwhelmed.
Supporting Your Parent Through Personality Changes
Supporting a parent experiencing behavioral changes requires empathy and patience. While personality shifts can be challenging to manage, taking proactive steps can make a significant difference when cognitive decline is involved.
Educate Yourself About Cognitive Decline
Knowledge is one of the most valuable tools when caring for a loved one with cognitive issues. Learning about conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia helps you prepare for the unique challenges these conditions cause.
Fortunately, there are plenty of online resources where you can learn about cognitive decline. Some excellent resources include:
- The Alzheimer’s Association is a leading nonprofit organization providing resources, support, & advocacy for individuals & families affected by Alzheimer’s disease
- The National Institute on Aging offers a wide range of information about Alzheimer’s disease, caregiving tips, & ongoing research
- Dementia Care Central is a comprehensive guide specifically designed for caregivers of individuals with dementia, covering symptoms, treatments, & support
- Family Caregiver Alliance provides resources, articles, & support for families & caregivers of those with cognitive impairment
These resources make it easier than ever to learn about these complicated conditions. They’re valuable tools, and they offer a wealth of knowledge.
Foster Open & Supportive Communication
Communication is essential when cognitive decline is involved. However, the underlying conditions causing your parent’s symptoms may affect communication. You’ll likely need to adjust your communication strategies when speaking with your parent.
It helps to:
- Speak calmly & clearly without raising your voice
- Reduce distractions during discussions to help them stay focused
- Use short explanations when discussing complex matters
- Be patient & allow extra time for them to respond
- Reassure them that their feelings & concerns are valid
These are small changes, but they can make communication much easier.
Establish a Stable Routine
Daily routines can make a world of difference when memory loss or cognitive decline are at play. Structured schedules reduce uncertainty and promote emotional stability.
It helps to set regular meal times, exercise routines, and social activities. This consistency can also benefit caregivers by providing a sense of predictability in their day-to-day tasks.
Encourage Mental & Physical Activity
Engaging activities encourage mental and physical stimulation. Some popular activities for older adults with cognitive decline include:
- Gentle physical exercises like yoga or walking
- Social opportunities like group games or conversations
- Puzzles, memory games, or tasks that require focus
These hobbies promote a higher sense of well-being while keeping the mind and body active.
The Benefits of Memory Care
Cognitive changes are progressive, so it’s natural for your loved one’s needs to evolve over time. When your parent’s needs exceed what you can comfortably provide at home, memory care offers a specialized and supportive environment.
At Kingston Residence of Perrysburg, we understand the unique challenges that cognitive decline can present. We have the experience to make a genuine difference in your loved one’s life and help keep them safe every day.
We’re dedicated to providing a home where your loved one can continue to thrive, always supported and understood. Schedule a visit with us today—your parent’s future home is waiting.
