7 Early Signs Of Dementia To Watch For—It's More Than Just 'Ageing'

Dementia, a degenerative disorder that severely impairs cognitive function, can include memory loss, behavioural changes, and difficulty walking. It is critical to recognise dementia early on since it can improve care and quality of life for individuals affected.

However, many patients delay diagnosis and treatment because they confuse early symptoms with normal age-related changes.

A recent Alzheimer's Society poll revealed that many people have waited far too long to seek help.

According to a 1,100-person survey by the Alzheimer's Society, one in three respondents (33 percent) who observed dementia signs in themselves or a loved one put off seeking medical attention for more than a month.

Surprisingly, 11% of individuals identified the early warning symptoms yet did not seek medical assistance. Delays in reporting symptoms can significantly affect how long it takes people to receive the attention and help they require.

Furthermore, the poll revealed that 23% of individuals waited more than six months to speak with a medical specialist.

One common misconception is that early dementia symptoms are a normal aspect of ageing. Because symptoms like memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and hearing loss are commonly connected with ageing, people may ignore possible signals of cognitive decline. Moreover, guilt and anxiety tends to keep the patients at bay from seeking the necessary care.

As per an Alzheimer's Society poll, 16 percent of people delayed seeking a diagnosis because they were worried about how it might affect their interpersonal ties.

According to Kate Lee, CEO of the Alzheimer's Society: "We can't continue to avoid the 'd' word - we need to face dementia head-on." She underlines the importance of discussing symptoms with a doctor as soon as they emerge, and she does so using resources such as the Alzheimer's Society's symptom checklist.

Seven Crucial Signs of Dementia to Look Out for

Early detection of dementia is critical for timely intervention. The following seven early indicators could indicate the beginning of dementia:

1. Having Difficulty Keeping Up With Conversations

Early dementia may be characterised by difficulties following what is said or participating in conversations. This is especially noticeable in situations where the individual was once an effective communicator.

2. Having Trouble Focusing

A person may have cognitive issues if they have difficulty concentrating or become easily distracted. Inability to focus during activities or talks may be an early indicator of dementia.

3. Loss of Memory

Dementia commonly produces amnesia, which is the inability to recall recent conversations, appointments, or events. As we get older, we may experience intermittent memory loss, but persistent memory loss may require medical intervention.

4. Hearing Loss

Even though hearing loss is commonly recognised as a normal part of the ageing process, it can make communication more difficult and produce difficulties similar to dementia.

When hearing impairments are combined with other cognitive disorders, dementia may develop.

5. Ignorance

Chronic forgetfulness, such as missing items or forgetting to finish important tasks, could be a warning indication. Retracing one's steps or remembering where one put something may signal a more significant problem than simple amnesia.

6. Mood Changes

Early dementia symptoms typically involve abrupt and unexplainable changes in conduct or mood, such as worry, melancholy, or impatience. These emotional fluctuations may signal cognitive decline because they are unusual for the person.

7. Having Trouble Moving

Dementia can impair motor abilities, making it difficult to complete daily tasks. Cognitive loss can be accompanied by a deterioration in mobility or coordination, making it harder to walk or manage objects.

Elderly adults sometimes misplace things or make poor decisions, but these incidents are typically uncommon and less severe than dementia symptoms. The primary difference lies in how severe and consistent the symptoms are.

For example, missing a car key or forgetting a word are examples of periodic forgetfulness that is typical as people age. Like forgetting the day of the week or losing track of entire conversations without assistance, these are not typical age-related changes.

If you or a loved one exhibits signs of dementia, you must contact a healthcare expert immediately. Early intervention can reduce the disease's progression, provide individuals with the resources, and support they require to maintain their quality of life.

The Alzheimer's Society recommends utilising their symptom checklist to guide the conversation with your doctor and begin the process of receiving appropriate care.

Remember that early dementia treatment can increase a person's capacity to manage the condition and seek the aid they require. If you detect any of the symptoms, do not hesitate to seek help.