By Olamilekan Jaji
It often begins subtly: a misplaced phone, car key , reading glasses, repeated stories, a forgotten appointment.
At first, it’s easy to dismiss—“Mama is just tired” or “Baba is getting old.” But over time, these lapses grow more frequent, more concerning, more difficult to ignore by any individual that cares.
For many Nigerian families, this is how the long journey with dementia begins—with confusion, ignorance , fear, and silence.
As dementia becomes an increasingly common concern among the elderly, families and caregivers are being called to respond with knowledge, compassion, and preparation. This feature explores how to recognize early symptoms of dementia, respond appropriately, and support a loved one living through one of the most challenging experiences of aging.
Understanding Dementia: More Than Just Memory Loss, cognitive decline!
Dementia is not a single disease but an umbrella term for a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform daily activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, but other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Dementia is progressive, meaning symptoms worsen over time. Early detection and supportive care can significantly improve quality of life.
Recognizing the Early Symptoms
The first signs of dementia often mimic normal aging, but with key differences in frequency, intensity, and impact. Common early symptoms include:
• Short-term memory loss (asking the same question repeatedly)
• Difficulty finding words or following conversations
• Confusion about time or place
• Poor judgment or decision-making
• Withdrawal from social or family activities
• Mood swings, irritability, or depression
When these signs begin disrupting daily life, it’s time to take them seriously.
Step One: Respond with Compassion, Not Panic
The moment a loved one begins to show signs of cognitive decline can be frightening. But the first and most important step is to stay calm and supportive.
Avoid blaming, mocking, or correcting harshly. Instead of saying, “You’ve asked me that five times already,” try gently saying, “Let me remind you again.”
A kind tone preserves dignity and avoids causing distress—especially when the person may already feel confused or embarrassed.
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Step Two: Seek a Medical Evaluation
Many conditions can mimic dementia, such as vitamin deficiencies, depression, side effects of medication, or even untreated infections. Only a trained healthcare professional can make an accurate diagnosis.
Encourage your loved one to see a doctor for a full check-up. If necessary, involve a family elder or religious leader they trust to help convince them.
Early diagnosis is crucial—it opens the door to medications, therapies, and planning for the future.
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Step Three: Educate the Family
Dementia affects not just the person diagnosed, but the entire household. Educating the family is essential to prevent misunderstandings, conflicts, or harmful behaviors.
Organize a family meeting to discuss:
• What dementia is—and what it is not
• What changes to expect over time
• How responsibilities will be shared (e.g., caregiving, finances, medical visits)
• How to communicate respectfully and effectively
The more informed everyone is, the more unified and effective the support system will be.
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Step Four: Create a Safe and Familiar Environment
Seniors with dementia thrive best in structured, familiar settings. Disruptions in routine or environment can increase confusion and anxiety.
Support them by:
• Keeping their living space clean, simple, and well-lit
• Labeling cabinets and rooms for easier navigation
• Using calendars and clocks to reinforce orientation
• Avoiding clutter or obstacles that may cause falls
• Playing familiar music, prayers, or traditional stories
Encourage consistency in daily routines, including mealtimes, bathing, and rest.
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Step Five: Communicate with Care
Dementia affects the ability to understand and process language. Use these strategies when communicating:
• Speak slowly and clearly
• Use short, simple sentences
• Maintain eye contact and gentle body language
• Avoid arguing or quizzing
• Validate their emotions, even if their statements are confused
If they ask for someone who has passed away, avoid painful corrections. Instead, gently redirect the conversation to comforting memories or positive topics.
Step Six: Prioritize Health and Nutrition
Seniors with dementia may forget to eat, take medications, or hydrate. This can worsen symptoms and cause complications.
Caregivers should:
• Ensure regular, nutritious meals (with familiar flavors)
• Monitor water intake
• Keep medication schedules visible and consistent
• Schedule regular medical check-ups
In advanced stages, feeding assistance or a nutritionist may be needed.
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Step Seven: Encourage Meaningful Engagement
Even with dementia, seniors benefit immensely from purposeful activity and social connection. Encourage:
• Light physical activity (walking, stretching)
• Art, music, or crafts
• Religious participation (prayers, fellowship groups)
• Storytelling or looking through photo albums
• Visits from family and friends
These activities help preserve dignity, stimulate the mind, and reduce agitation.
Step Eight: Take Care of the Caregiver
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be emotionally and physically draining. Many caregivers experience burnout, depression, or guilt.
Caregivers must:
• Take breaks and rest
• Join support groups or counseling
• Ask for help from other relatives or community networks
• Consider home-care aides or adult day programs when needed
You cannot pour from an empty cup—caring for yourself is part of caring for them.
Olamilekan Jaji is an Old Age advocate, author of several literatures on Old Age especially “Ageing For You and Me,”,”Beyond Old Age” and “Older Adults and Suicide”.
He writes from Abeokuta, Ogun state Nigeria.