How often do you ignore signs? It’s cloudy; you leave your umbrella at home or in the car, only to find that it’s raining when it’s time to venture out. It was time to replace the bulb. You thought you noticed a flicker, but you weren’t sure. Now you have to take the time to replace the bulb. We also often ignore the signs of memory loss in our loved ones or other signs of illness. Have your recent visits shown loved ones wearing inappropriate clothing for the current weather conditions or dressing patterns that are unusual from the way “mom or dad” normally dresses? There was an occasion when a loved one wore these plaid wool pants in the heat of summer. When comments were made, she said she was cold. Did you tell yourself perhaps they are just having a bad day or it was a part of the aging process? What happens when you ask a question and the answer is obvious, but their response is totally unpredictable? Again we often ignore the signs. I remember when a loved one began having problems remembering how to write. She was confused and ignored paying bills. After a few months, she confessed that she just was not able to do it. How could I have not known? We must be aware and look for the signs of changes that disrupt our loved ones daily lives, changes in planning, poor judgment, and personality and mood changes. It’s not always easy to notice. We just have to be more attentive and more aware. It’s all a part of the journey. Let me know some of the signs you have been ignoring. Email me.