Recognizing the early signs of dementia

Dementia is a condition that affects cognitive abilities such as memory, thinking, and decision-making. It often progresses slowly, making it difficult to identify in its early stages. However, recognizing the first signs of dementia is crucial for obtaining a timely diagnosis and early intervention. Here are some common early warning signs to watch for.

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

One of the earliest and most recognizable symptoms of dementia is memory loss that interferes with everyday life. This is more than just forgetting where you placed your keys—it involves forgetting important events or repeatedly asking the same questions. People may start to rely on notes or the help of others to remember new information.

2. Difficulty with Planning and Problem-Solving

People developing dementia may struggle to follow plans or solve simple problems. For instance, they might forget how to follow a familiar recipe or lose the ability to manage their bills. This can lead to feelings of confusion and frustration for both the individual and their loved ones.

3. Disorientation to Time and Place

Early signs of dementia can include an inability to keep track of time or location. A person may get lost in familiar surroundings, have difficulty understanding what day it is, or be unsure how they arrived at a certain place. This disorientation can be both confusing and frightening for the affected individual.

4. Changes in Mood and Personality

Dementia can also affect mood and personality. Someone who was once outgoing and social might become more withdrawn or apathetic. Anxiety, depression, or unusual irritability can also be early signs. These changes may be subtle at first but often become more pronounced as the disease progresses.

5. Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks

A person in the early stages of dementia may begin to struggle with tasks they once found easy. This can include forgetting how to use household appliances or how to perform basic tasks like dressing or grooming. These changes occur gradually but become more noticeable over time.

6. Poor Judgment

People developing dementia may show signs of poor judgment or make unusual decisions. This could involve giving large sums of money to strangers or neglecting personal hygiene. Without proper support, these behaviors can have serious consequences.

 

 

READ ABOUT HOW SENSOREMS PERSONAL ALARM CAN HELP WITH DEMENTIA