Personality Changes in Seniors: What's Normal and What May Be a Warning Sign
Aging brings many changes, including changes to our personality and behavior. The number of seniors in Nevada with dementia is expected to reach 65,000 in 2025. Therefore, it's only natural that we want to know if our loved ones' personality changes could be dementia symptoms or are a natural part of aging.
It's important to distinguish between normal age-related adjustments and signs of more serious issues such as dementia and cognitive decline. This handy guide will take you through various symptoms so that family and caregivers can provide the support their older loved ones need.
We will also discuss how to tell whether the time has come for memory care support. Let's get started.
Normal Personality Changes
Not all senior behavioral changes are signs of a serious problem. Our golden years are times of change. We transition from work into retirement, we often lose friends and family members close to us, and we may find we can't do the activities we once enjoyed.
It is hardly surprising then that many seniors find their personality changes slightly as well. While these subtle changes may not be concerning, other personality changes can be red flags for conditions related to aging and mental health.
Increased Frustration
If you find that your loved one is occasionally irritable or gets frustrated more easily than they did in the past, do not be too alarmed. This is likely due to natural stress and frustration arising from physical limitations or changes in routine.
Psychology Today highlights the following reasons seniors may get angry more easily than they used to:
- Loss - including relationships, time, and physical abilities
- Social isolation - living alone or interacting with others infrequently
- Chronic pain - may lead to anger rising more easily
Becoming Introspective
Some seniors may also become more introspective. They may prefer to discuss the past and reflect on their experiences rather than discussing hopes and dreams for the future. This may lead to them preferring quiet time with family over large social gatherings.
Increased Caution and Changes in Interests
Many seniors also become more anxious and cautious. This is often due to physical limitations and financial constraints some experience as they age.
Finally, you may notice that their interests have changed. Hobbies they previously loved may no longer appeal, while new interests may keep them engaged.
These signs are generally a normal part of aging. However, other changes could indicate a more serious problem.
Concerning Personality Changes
The following changes are often similar to the ones mentioned above. The difference is the seriousness of the changes and the potential for harm to themselves and others.
Aggression and Hostility
Uncharacteristic anger or agitation is a distressing symptom that could be linked to cognitive decline or dementia. For example, the Alzheimer's Association highlights that verbal and physical aggression can occur out of the blue with no apparent reason.
It is important to understand that your loved one is not acting on purpose. Anger and hostility are common symptoms of a memory issue and can be a sign your loved one needs memory care support.
Withdrawal From Social Activities
If your family member is no longer comfortable with associating with friends or family, this could be a worrying sign. Isolation from social activities is associated with both depression and early dementia symptoms. Avoid pressuring your loved one, but help them get checked out by a qualified healthcare professional.
Socially or Morally Inappropriate Behavior
Sadly, some seniors with cognitive decline exhibit behavior that is totally out of character. According to the University of California, San Francisco's Weill Institute of Neurosciences, this can include:
- Sexually inappropriate behavior
- Cutting in line
- Taking food off another person's plate
- Making rude or sexually explicit comments
Talking to your loved one's medical provider about these issues is important, as they could affect their safety and that of others. In a memory care support community, staff are trained to handle these symptoms and protect your loved one and other residents.
Paranoia or Suspicion
If your loved one is becoming increasingly paranoid, prone to believing conspiracy theories or developing delusions, it is time to seek medical advice. These are common dementia symptoms and often include:
- A belief someone is stealing from them
- An urge to go to work, although they retired years ago
- A belief they are safe to drive, although they no longer have a license
These symptoms are common in Lewy body dementia and Parkinson's disease dementia. Thorough investigations from healthcare professionals can help you understand your loved one's condition and treatment options.
Addressing Senior Behavioral Changes
Personality changes can be distressing and confusing for the older person and family members alike. The following steps can help you see a way forward.
Seek Medical Advice
A qualified doctor can assess whether your loved one is experiencing dementia symptoms or these are signs of other medical conditions. They can also rule out medication side effects as a cause of the personality changes.
Continued Social Engagement
Loneliness will only make conditions worse for your loved one. So help them to enjoy one-to-one and small group social interactions on a regular basis.
Promote a Healthy Lifestyle
Whether your loved one is suffering from cognitive decline or not, it is important to stay fit and healthy. Encourage them to eat a balanced diet and get regular exercise.
Consider Memory Care Support
If your loved one is still living on their own, consider whether now is the time to transition into senior housing. If they do not have a memory condition, assisted living in Sparks, NV, could be a great choice.
However, for seniors with dementia symptoms, a memory care support community is well-equipped to care for their needs with dignity and compassion.
Choose Kiley Ranch Senior Living for Outstanding Memory Care Support
If your loved one's personality changes are due to cognitive decline, help them access the best care possible. At Kiley Ranch Senior Living, our memory care community focuses on personalized care.
Our specially trained staff gives our residents the support and dignity they need to get the best out of their senior years. You can rest assured your loved one is living in comfort and security, and has the support they need.
Click here to learn more about our services and schedule a free tour today!