Understanding dementia and memory loss

Many families in Joliet, New Lenox, and the greater Chicago area start to worry when an older parent or spouse becomes more forgetful. Misplacing keys or forgetting a name from time to time can be a normal part of aging. Other changes may suggest a deeper problem that deserves medical attention.

Dementia is a general term used to describe memory loss and changes in thinking that are strong enough to affect daily life. It is not a single disease. It is a group of symptoms that can have different causes.

Seeing a physician who understands both geriatric medicine and family medicine, like Dr. Mouhannad Kantar, can help families sort through what is normal, what is not, and what can be done next.

What dementia is and is not

Dementia is:

• A decline in memory and thinking skills

• Strong enough to interfere with everyday activities

• Often noticed by family members or close friends

Dementia is not:

• A normal or inevitable part of aging

• The same as mild forgetfulness that does not affect daily life

• A single disease with one simple cause

There are many possible reasons for memory loss. Some are related to brain changes such as Alzheimer disease. Others are related to medications, uncontrolled chronic conditions, depression, or sleep problems. This is why a careful medical evaluation is important.

Common types of dementia in older adults

In older adults, dementia may be caused by:

• Alzheimer disease

• Vascular dementia, related to strokes or blood vessel disease

• Lewy body dementia

• Frontotemporal dementia

• Mixed patterns that include more than one type

Different types can look similar in the early stages. The exact type may become clearer over time. The most important first step is recognizing that there is a problem and getting appropriate evaluation and support.

Early signs families in Illinois should watch for

Families are often the first to notice changes. Early signs can be subtle and vary from person to person.

Changes in memory and thinking

Possible early signs include:

• Repeating the same questions or stories in a short period of time

• Forgetting important appointments or events

• Relying more on notes or family to remember basic information

• Getting confused about time, dates, or familiar places

• Difficulty following steps in recipes, bills, or medications

A single isolated episode is usually less concerning than a pattern that slowly worsens over months or years.

Changes in mood and behavior

Memory changes often occur alongside shifts in mood or personality, such as:

• Increased anxiety, irritability, or sadness

• Loss of interest in hobbies or social activities

• Becoming suspicious or misreading intentions

• Changes in judgment, such as poor financial decisions

Families in Joliet and New Lenox may notice that their loved one just does not seem like themselves anymore.

Changes in daily function and safety

Dementia often shows up in daily life before it is obvious on tests. Watch for:

• Trouble managing money, paying bills, or balancing a checkbook

• Getting lost while driving to familiar places

• Leaving the stove on or forgetting to lock doors

• Wearing the same clothes for many days without realizing it

• New problems with personal hygiene

These changes may put safety and independence at risk if they are not addressed.

When to talk to a doctor about memory concerns

It can be hard to know when to bring up memory concerns. Some families worry about upsetting their loved one. Others fear a diagnosis and delay the conversation.

Normal aging vs concerning symptoms

Some changes are often part of normal aging, such as:

• Occasionally forgetting names but remembering them later

• Needing more time to learn new technology

• Misplacing items once in a while

Concerning signs may include:

• Frequent repetition of questions or stories

• Getting lost in familiar settings

• Not recognizing close family or friends in familiar contexts

• Noticeable changes in judgment or behavior

When in doubt, it is better to discuss concerns with a doctor rather than waiting.

Why early evaluation can help

An early evaluation may:

• Identify causes that are treatable, such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, side effects from medicines, sleep apnea, or depression

• Allow families to plan for the future while the person can still share their wishes

• Help manage symptoms earlier, which may improve quality of life

• Provide support and education for caregivers

It is important to remember that not every memory concern means dementia. However, ignoring ongoing changes may delay helpful care.

How Dr. Kantar evaluates memory problems

A thoughtful evaluation can help clarify what is happening and what should happen next.

Medical history and medication review

During a visit, Dr. Mouhannad Kantar typically:

• Reviews the patient’s medical history and chronic conditions

• Goes through all medications, including over the counter drugs and supplements

• Asks about sleep, mood, appetite, and daily routines

• Involves a family member or caregiver with the patient’s permission

Some medicines can affect memory or thinking. Adjusting doses or changing a drug may sometimes help.

Cognitive screening and physical exam

Dr. Kantar may use simple tests to check:

• Short term memory

• Attention and concentration

• Ability to find words

• Problem solving skills

He also performs a physical exam, which may include checking blood pressure, heart function, neurologic reflexes, and balance. These pieces of information help build a complete picture.

When additional tests are needed

In some cases, Dr. Kantar may order additional tests, such as:

• Blood work to look for vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, or other medical conditions

• Brain imaging, such as a CT or MRI, if needed based on symptoms

• Sleep studies if sleep apnea is suspected

He may also coordinate care with neurologists or other specialists as appropriate. The exact plan depends on the patient’s age, health, and specific symptoms.

Building a dementia and memory care plan

If dementia or another cause of significant memory loss is diagnosed, the next step is building a care plan that fits the person and their family.

Treatable contributors to memory problems

Even when dementia is present, there can be treatable contributors that make thinking worse, such as:

• Uncontrolled blood pressure or diabetes

• Medication side effects

• Poor sleep or untreated sleep apnea

• Depression, anxiety, or loneliness

• Hearing or vision problems

Addressing these factors may not cure dementia, but it can often improve day to day function and comfort.

Managing chronic diseases alongside dementia

Many seniors with dementia also have other chronic conditions, including:

• Diabetes

• Heart disease

• COPD

• Thyroid disorders

Dr. Kantar’s dual training in geriatric medicine and family medicine allows him to manage both memory issues and chronic disease. Treatment decisions may be adjusted to better match the person’s stage of dementia and overall goals of care.

Planning for safety at home

A dementia care plan often includes safety considerations, such as:

• Evaluating risks of falls in the home

• Discussing driving and when it may be time to limit or stop driving

• Setting up systems for medication reminders and supervision

• Adding grab bars, night lights, and other small changes that improve safety

When needed, referrals to occupational therapy, social work, or community services can help support the patient and family.

Support for caregivers and families

Dementia affects the entire family, not just the person with memory loss. Caregivers often carry a heavy load.

Involving family in visits

With the patient’s permission, Dr. Kantar welcomes family members and caregivers in visits. This allows:

• Better understanding of changes at home

• Shared planning and problem solving

• A chance for caregivers to ask their own questions

Clear communication can reduce confusion and help everyone work together.

Community resources and respite

Caregivers may benefit from:

• Support groups, in person or online

• Adult day programs

• Respite services that provide short term relief

• Education about communication strategies and behavior management

While availability varies by location, Dr. Kantar can often point families in Joliet and New Lenox toward local and regional resources.

Using telehealth in dementia care

Telehealth can be a helpful tool for some aspects of dementia and memory care, especially when travel is hard.

When virtual visits are useful

Telehealth may be useful for:

• Checking in on how medications are working

• Discussing behavior or sleep changes

• Answering questions from caregivers

• Reviewing safety plans or community resources

This can be especially helpful for families who live far away or cannot easily attend in person visits.

What still needs in person care

Some parts of dementia care still require in person visits, such as:

• More detailed physical and neurologic exams

• Certain memory and cognitive tests

• Vaccinations and procedures

Telehealth works best when it is combined with regular in person care as part of an ongoing relationship with the geriatrician.

Related services and internal link suggestions

On your website, this dementia and memory care article can connect to several other service pages to guide patients and search engines:

• Link dementia and memory care and phrases like memory loss evaluation to your Dementia and Memory Care service page.

• Link comprehensive geriatric care and primary care for seniors to your Comprehensive Geriatric Medicine page.

• Link chronic disease management where you mention diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease to your Chronic Disease Management page.

• Link falls, frailty, and safety at home to your Geriatric Syndromes page.

• Link telehealth or virtual visits to your Telehealth and Virtual Visits page.

• Link Medicare wellness exams and preventive care to your Preventive Care and Medicare Wellness Exams page.

These internal links improve navigation for patients and help search engines understand how your services are related.

Next steps for dementia and memory care in Joliet and New Lenox

Facing memory loss or a possible dementia diagnosis can be frightening. You and your family do not have to face it alone. A careful, respectful evaluation and a clear plan can bring structure and support to a confusing time.

If you or a loved one is an older adult in Joliet, New Lenox, or the greater Chicago area and you are concerned about memory changes, consider scheduling an evaluation with Dr. Mouhannad Kantar, a board certified geriatrician and family physician.

This article is for general education only and does not replace medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, you should always consult your own physician.

To learn more about dementia and memory care or to book an appointment, contact Dr. Kantar’s offices in Joliet and New Lenox, Illinois and request a visit today.