Category: Dementia

Key Takeaways

• The interlocking finger test helps evaluate cognitive and motor function in people with Parkinson’s disease.
• It measures comprehension, coordination, and short-term memory recall.
• Early deentia symptoms include confusion, visual-spatial challenges, and emotional changes.
• The test offers valuable insight but does not diagnose dementia on its own.
• Memory care communities provide structure, routine, and safety for people experiencing cognitive decline.
• Professional care helps prevent caregiver burnout while providing a safe environment for your loved one

The Finger-Interlocking Dementia Test

Watching a loved one experience cognitive changes can be confusing and emotional. You may notice small lapses and wonder whether they’re part of normal aging or signs of something more. For many families, recognizing these changes is the first step toward getting answers and the professional support their loved one needs. Fortunately, testing a loved one’s cognitive abilities is often easier than people think.

The Interlocking Finger Test is a simple screening tool that healthcare providers use to assess cognitive function. It can be used for most types of dementia, but it’s most effective for testing for Parkinson’s disease. This test helps identify when dementia is affecting motor coordination, comprehension, and memory recall abilities.

Parkinson’s Disease and Its Impact

Parkinson’s dementia occurs when the brain changes caused by Parkinson’s disease begin to influence thinking, memory, and reasoning abilities. These symptoms typically appear years after the initial Parkinson’s diagnosis, but when they do, they can make daily life and independent activities more difficult.

Unlike other forms of cognitive decline, Parkinson’s dementia affects executive function, attention, and visual-spatial processing. Your loved one may have trouble planning tasks, interpreting visual information, or following conversations for long periods. Over time, these challenges can make it harder to stay safe and engaged at home.

Common Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Early signs of dementia linked to Parkinson’s disease often develop gradually. Families may first notice shifts in mood, focus, or problem-solving ability before memory issues become obvious.

Eventually, Parkinson’s disease can lead to:

• Confusion about time or location
• Difficulty following multistep directions
• Changes in attention or concentration
• Challenges with visual perception
• Increased anxiety or emotional changes

If you’ve noticed these symptoms in a loved one, don’t ignore them. Instead, book a visit with a healthcare professional as soon as you can. A professional diagnosis is the first step towards giving your loved one the care they need.

How Symptoms Progress Over Time

Parkinson’s dementia tends to advance slowly. In the early stages, confusion or forgetfulness might be mild and intermittent. As the condition progresses, it can affect language, reasoning, and recognition of familiar people or places.

These symptoms worsen as changes in the brain progress further. Eventually, a person living with Parkinson’s disease and dementia will need professional memory care.

How the Interlocking Finger Test Works

Before performing the finger interlocking test, a provider demonstrates how to interlace the fingers in a specific pattern. Your loved one is asked to copy the pattern right away and then repeat it later from memory. This short, non-invasive task only takes a few minutes and requires no equipment.

The goal is to observe how well the person:

• Processes visual instructions 
• Coordinates hand movements
• Remembers a pattern after a short delay

These skills often decline early in Parkinson’s dementia. That’s why this test is a useful screening tool for identifying when additional evaluation or support might be beneficial.

Why This Test Matters for Families

While the test itself isn’t diagnostic, its results can highlight areas where your loved one might be struggling. If your loved one struggles with understanding instructions or completing everyday tasks, this test can highlight these problems. However, it’s not a guaranteed diagnosis, but just one piece of the puzzle.

Memory Care Services and What They Provide

If a loved one is showing signs of cognitive decline, it’s likely time to think about memory care. These communities are designed to support people living with dementia or other forms of cognitive decline. Memory care offers 24-hour professional supervision in warm, homelike settings built to preserve quality of life..

Personalized Care Approaches

In memory care, every resident’s care plan is developed around their strengths, abilities, and preferences. The focus is on maintaining quality of life and offering hands-on support where it’s needed most. 

Memory care communities offer all kinds of engaging programs, events, and activities to stimulate the mind. Activities may include motor skill exercises, sensory programs, and memory-focused therapy. Each plan evolves as residents’ needs shift, ensuring consistent, compassionate care over time.

Creating a Safe and Engaging Environment

Senior living makes a significant difference in daily comfort and safety. Within this structure, residents find a balance between familiarity and gentle stimulation—all in an environment that nurtures calm, confidence, and belonging. 

Taking the Next Steps in Your Care Journey

When cognitive decline begins to affect your loved one’s daily life, specialized care can provide the comfort, safety, and structure they need. It’s about more than assistance—it’s about helping them continue to live with dignity and purpose.If you’re considering memory care or independent living options for your loved one, we’d love to show you what makes NorBella Centerville different. Our warm, supportive community provides specialized care while honoring each resident’s individuality and personal story. Book a tour with us today, and let us show you how we’re changing the story of aging with compassion, expertise, and genuine care.

Key Takeaways

• Ask specific questions about diagnosis type, stage, and treatment options during neurologist visits
• Focus on safety concerns like driving, home modifications, and daily living adjustments
• The right questions let you plan for care team coordination and community support 
• Your neurologist can often even recommend effective communication strategies for behavioral changes and confusion

What to Ask a Neurologist

Walking into a neurologist’s office with your loved one can feel daunting. You might sense that something isn’t right, but aren’t sure how to describe it—or what to ask once you’re there. Preparing thoughtful questions ahead of time can help you feel more confident and help your loved one receive the support they need.

Asking the right questions about your loved one’s behavior helps you understand what’s happening. It also lets you plan ahead for the future and find a memory care community for your loved one. So, what are some of the best questions to ask a neurologist about dementia?

The Diagnosis and What It Means for Your Family

First, focus on the diagnosis itself. What’s causing your loved one’s symptoms, and what can you do about it? These are the biggest questions, so start with these.

1. Is This Normal Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, or Dementia?

Memory changes happen as we age, but significant forgetfulness isn’t always normal. Ask your neurologist to explain the difference between typical aging and more serious cognitive changes. Then, ask them to highlight specific symptoms and why they’re a concern.

2. What Type of Dementia Are We Dealing With?

Different types of dementia progress differently and affect people in unique ways. Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia each have distinct patterns. When you know the specific type, you can learn what to expect in the future.

3. What Stage Are We In and What Can We Expect?

Dementia progresses through different stages, from mild to moderate to severe. Ask about the current stage and what changes you might see in the coming months or years. This information helps families plan for care needs and make decisions about living arrangements.

Treatment Options and Medications Available

Once you understand the underlying condition, it’s time to plan ahead for treatment.

4. Are There FDA-Approved Medications That Can Help?

Some medications may ease memory loss or behavioral changes. Ask your neurologist which options are most suitable and what side effects to monitor. Your neurologist can explain how these treatments work and what improvements you might realistically expect.

5. What About Clinical Trials and New Treatments?

Research continues to advance in dementia treatment, and clinical trials offer access to newer therapies. Ask if your loved one qualifies for any current trials or experimental treatments. Your neurologist can help you weigh the benefits and risks of participating in research programs.

6. Which Medications Should We Avoid?

Certain prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs can worsen confusion. Ask for a list of medications to avoid and share it with all care providers to make sure your loved one’s treatment remains safe and coordinated.

7. How Will We Know if Treatments Are Working?

Understanding what success looks like helps set realistic expectations. Ask how long it takes to see improvements and what signs indicate treatments are helping. Sometimes, slowing decline rather than improving function is the goal.

Safety Concerns and Daily Living Adjustments

Dementia affects both independence and safety. Proactive planning can prevent accidents and reduce stress—for everyone involved.

8. When Should We Stop Driving and How Do We Handle That Conversation?

Driving independence is often difficult to give up. Ask your neurologist for warning signs that suggest it’s time to stop driving. Framing this decision as a medical recommendation can make the transition smoother.

9. Is It Safe for Your Loved One to Be Alone at Home?

As dementia symptoms progress, home safety becomes a central concern. Ask about signs that indicate it’s time for extra supervision or in‑home support. Wandering, leaving appliances on, or forgetting daily routines are key issues to discuss.

10. What Home Safety Changes Do We Need to Make?

Simple changes—like removing tripping hazards, labeling rooms, or improving lighting—can help prevent confusion. Ask if an occupational therapist can assess the home and recommend improvements to make daily life safer and easier.

Planning for Care and Support Services

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Building a care network early can help your loved one stay supported and comfortable.

11. Which Healthcare Professionals Should Join Our Care Team?

Dementia care often requires a team approach beyond just the neurologist. Ask about working with geriatricians, social workers, occupational therapists, and other specialists. Building this team early helps coordinate care and provides multiple sources of support for your family.

12. What Community Resources and Support Groups Are Available?

Support groups, adult day programs, and respite services can ease caregiver stress and help families feel connected. Ask about local or online programs in your area, because these are invaluable resources. They often become lifelines for families navigating this journey. 

13. When Should We Consider Memory Care or Assisted Living Options?

Recognizing when home care is no longer safe can be difficult. Ask your neurologist what behaviors or risks might indicate it’s time to explore memory care. These communities provide secure environments, structured routines, and social engagement designed for people with dementia. They can help reduce dementia’s effect on your loved one’s life and preserve their dignity and quality of life.

Communication Strategies and Behavioral Changes

Even as memory fades, connection is still possible. Learning new ways to communicate and respond can make daily life more peaceful for everyone.

14. How Should We Communicate When Memory Gets Worse?

Simple, calm language and eye contact can make a big difference. Ask your neurologist or a speech therapist for specific communication strategies tailored to your loved one’s condition. They may recommend speech therapy or specific strategies for your loved one’s situation.

15. What Should We Do When Confusion or Agitation Happens?

Behavioral changes are common with dementia and can be distressing for everyone involved. Ask about triggers that commonly cause agitation and techniques for responding calmly. Understanding that these behaviors stem from the condition, not personal choices, helps families respond with compassion. 

16. How Can We Handle Wandering and Sleep Problems?

Sleep disruption and wandering create safety concerns and family stress. Ask about strategies for maintaining regular sleep schedules and preventing unsafe wandering. Your neurologist might suggest environmental modifications or medications to help with these challenging behaviors.

Moving Forward with Confidence and Hope

When home care becomes challenging, memory care can make all the difference. Communities like ours at Norbella Prior Lake are built to support your family and help your loved one thrive—even if cognitive decline is involved.

In our community, we provide memory care built around safety, familiarity, and dignity. Our team understands that every journey is unique, and we work closely with families to create personalized care that supports each resident’s well-being. Schedule a tour today to see how we can help your loved one feel secure, supported, and seen.

Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease gradually impair memory, reasoning, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Over time, individuals may struggle with communication, forget important routines, or become disoriented even in familiar surroundings. These challenges can make it increasingly difficult—and unsafe—for them to live independently.

Deciding when it’s time for memory care is rarely straightforward. It depends on many factors, including cognitive decline, physical health, emotional well-being, and caregiver capacity. While every journey is unique, there are common signs that indicate when a supportive, structured environment may be the best next step for your loved one. 

Recognizing these signs early can help you plan thoughtfully and ensure your loved one receives the care and dignity they deserve.

What Is Memory Care & How Does It Help?

Memory care is a specialized form of senior living designed to support those with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.

These communities are staffed by trained professionals who understand the unique needs of individuals with cognitive impairments. In addition to daily support with tasks like bathing, dressing, and meals, memory care also provides enriching activities that stimulate the mind, reduce confusion, and improve quality of life.

In Centerville, often turn to memory care communities when safety and well-being become a concern at home. The structure, support, and personalized routines of memory care can help seniors live with greater comfort and dignity.

Experts categorize cognitive decline into different stages to provide a clearer picture of the disease’s progression. From early-stage dementia to advanced stages, each stage requires varying levels of care and supervision. Understanding these stages is key in deciding when memory care might be needed.

What Are the Signs That It Might Be Time for Memory Care?

There is no single moment that defines when someone should transition to memory care—but there are several key signs to watch for.

Each family’s experience is different, but when day-to-day life becomes unsafe or unmanageable, memory care may offer the support your loved one needs.

Declining Cognitive Health

Cognitive decline can manifest in various ways. Memory lapses become more frequent, and individuals may struggle with tasks that were once second nature. 

Other signs of cognitive decline include:

• Difficulty concentrating or following conversations
• Forgetting names, dates, or appointments
• Trouble remembering to take medications—or taking them incorrectly
• Confusion about time, places, and familiar surroundings

As these cognitive challenges become more pronounced, safety becomes a critical concern. Dementia can cause individuals to forget basic routines, lose track of time, or even wander away from familiar environments.

Increased Safety Risks

Wandering, forgetting to turn off the stove, or frequent falls are serious safety red flags. If you find yourself constantly worried about your loved one being alone or unsupervised, that may be a signal that additional care is necessary.

Inability to Manage Daily Tasks

As dementia progresses, daily routines can become overwhelming. Missed meals, unopened mail, poor hygiene, and medication errors can put your loved one at risk—especially if they live alone.

Changes in Mood or Behavior

Confusion, agitation, withdrawal, and personality shifts can happen as dementia progresses. If your loved one is becoming difficult to console or unpredictable in their behaviour, memory care may provide the consistent, compassionate support they need.

Caregiver Burnout

Caring for a loved one with dementia is physically and emotionally exhausting. If caregiving is affecting your mental health, relationships, or job performance, it may be time to explore other options for their care—and your own well-being.

How Is Memory Care Different from Assisted Living?

Families in Centerville often ask whether memory care is the same as assisted living—but there are several key differences.

Both offer help with daily tasks, but memory care provides a more structured and secure environment tailored to cognitive decline.

Specialized Staff Training

Memory care teams are trained in dementia-specific care techniques, including communication strategies and redirection approaches that support emotional regulation and reduce distress.

Enhanced Safety Features

Memory care communities include additional safety features such as secured exits, motion sensors, and enclosed outdoor spaces to help prevent wandering and injury.

Customized Programs & Routines

Daily activities are designed to encourage connection, stimulate memory, and offer a sense of familiarity. Programs are individualized based on each person’s cognitive ability and interests.

Why Starting Memory Care Early Can Be Helpful

While there’s no universal “right time” for everyone, early-stage dementia can still require more assistance than families might initially realize. In the beginning, some individuals may be able to live independently with minimal support. However, as dementia progresses, the challenges of self-care and safety become more apparent.

Many families wait until a crisis occurs before making the move to memory care—but earlier transitions can make the process smoother. When individuals still have some independence, they can become more familiar with their surroundings, form connections with staff and peers, and take part in meaningful activities.

Early transitions can also help minimize the stress of a major life change. Moving while a loved one is still relatively adaptable often leads to better outcomes—both emotionally and cognitively.

What Should You Look for in a Memory Care Community?

Finding the right fit is important. Every community has its own environment, programs, and care philosophy.

When touring communities in Centerville or surrounding areas, consider the following:

• Is the environment calm, clean, and secure?
• Are staff members engaged and compassionate with residents?
• What kind of social activities and enrichment programs are offered?
• How do they handle emergencies or medical needs?
• Are families encouraged to be involved?

Asking these questions helps ensure your loved one will receive not only excellent care—but also the respect, dignity, and joy they deserve.

What Are the Next Steps?

If you’re starting to ask whether memory care might be right for your loved one, you’re already on the right path.

Take time to explore local options, talk with your family, and consult with healthcare professionals. Making this decision is never easy, but with the right guidance, you can find a path forward that supports everyone involved.

A Community That Understands With Compassion

Deciding on memory care can be emotional—but you don’t have to do it alone. In Centerville, Norbella offers a supportive, dignified environment where seniors can thrive.

We take care of life’s daily burdens so residents are free to focus on connection, growth, and joy. Our cozy memory care neighborhood features just 16 apartments, allowing for personalized care and meaningful relationships.

From engaging activities to compassionate support, every detail is designed with your loved one’s well-being in mind. With Norbella, you’ll find more than care—you’ll find community, fulfillment, and peace of mind.

Schedule a tour, ask questions, or simply start a conversation. We’re here to help you take the next step with confidence and care.