Understanding dementia is important, as finding it early can make a big difference. Early support can slow down the symptoms and help improve life for those affected. Spotting the early signs of dementia can be hard because they often look like normal changes as we age. However, knowing what to look out for can help you get the right medical advice and support in time.
Memory loss and confusion
Memory loss is often one of the first signs of dementia. It’s not just about misplacing your keys; it’s more about forgetting things like recent conversations, important dates, or events. A person with dementia might ask the same question many times or need to rely more on reminders, like notes or electronic devices. This type of memory loss is different from the normal forgetfulness we all have now and then.
Confusion about time and place is another red flag. Person with dementia may lose track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time. They might forget where they are or how they got there. This disorientation can be particularly distressing for both the individual and their loved ones. If you notice these signs, it might be time to consider a professional evaluation.
Difficulty performing familiar tasks
Imagine trying to make a cup of tea but forgetting the steps involved. This is what it can feel like for persons with dementia. Difficulty performing familiar tasks is a common early sign. It’s not just about forgetting how to do something complex; it can be as simple as forgetting how to use a household appliance or struggling to complete a routine task at work.
These difficulties can extend to personal care tasks as well. For instance, someone might forget the steps involved in getting dressed or preparing a meal. This can lead to frustration and a sense of helplessness. If you notice a loved one struggling with tasks they once performed effortlessly, it’s worth paying attention to.
Challenges with communication
Have you ever found yourself searching for the right word during a conversation? For person with dementia, this can become a frequent and frustrating experience. They may struggle to follow or join in on conversations, often stopping mid-sentence and not knowing how to continue. Repeating themselves or having difficulty finding the right words are also common signs.
Vocabulary can become a significant hurdle. Person with dementia might call a watch a “hand numbers” or use other incorrect terms. These communication challenges can make social interactions difficult and lead to withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed. If you notice these signs, it might be time to seek professional advice.
Poor judgment and decision-making
We all make poor decisions from time to time, but for person with dementia, poor judgment and decision-making can become a frequent issue. They might use poor judgment when dealing with money, such as giving large sums to telemarketers or making unwise financial decisions.
These changes in judgment can extend to other areas of life as well. For instance, someone might wear inappropriate clothing for the weather or neglect their safety. If you notice these signs, it’s crucial to seek professional advice to determine the cause and get the necessary support.
Changes in mood and personality
Have you noticed a loved one becoming unusually irritable or anxious? Changes in mood and personality are common early signs of dementia. Persons with dementia can experience mood swings, becoming easily upset in situations where they previously remained calm. They might also become suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious.
These changes can be particularly challenging for both the person with dementia and their loved ones. It’s essential to approach these changes with empathy and understanding, recognizing that they are part of the condition. If you notice significant changes in mood or personality, it’s worth seeking professional advice.
Withdrawal from social activities
Imagine a once-social butterfly suddenly losing interest in their favourite activities. Withdrawal from social activities is a common early sign of dementia. Person with dementia might start to withdraw from hobbies, social activities, or other engagements they once enjoyed. They may have trouble keeping up with a favourite team or activity.
This withdrawal can be due to the challenges they face in communication and memory. It’s essential to encourage social interaction and provide support to help them stay engaged. If you notice a loved one withdrawing from social activities, it’s worth considering a professional evaluation.
Misplacing things regularly
We all misplace things from time to time, but for person with dementia, this can become a frequent and frustrating issue. They might put things in unusual places and be unable to retrace their steps to find them again. For instance, they might place a wallet in the fridge or keys in the sugar bowl.
As the condition progresses, they might even accuse others of stealing their misplaced items. This can lead to increased anxiety and tension. If you notice a loved one frequently misplacing things and being unable to find them, it’s worth seeking professional advice.
Struggling with problem-solving
Imagine trying to solve a simple puzzle but finding it increasingly difficult. Struggling with problem-solving is a common early sign of dementia. Person with dementia might find it challenging to follow a plan or work with numbers. They might have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills.
These difficulties can extend to other areas of life as well. For instance, someone might struggle to concentrate or take much longer to do things than they used to. If you notice a loved one struggling with problem-solving tasks, it’s worth considering a professional evaluation.
When to seek medical advice
So, when should you seek medical advice? If you notice any of these early signs of dementia in yourself or a loved one, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving the quality of life. It allows for timely intervention, which can slow the progression of symptoms and provide the necessary support.
Conclusion
Recognizing the early signs of dementia can be challenging, but it’s crucial for timely intervention and support. From memory loss and confusion to changes in mood and personality, these signs can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected. By being aware of these signs and seeking professional advice, you can make a world of difference for yourself or a loved one.
Hovi Care’s Expertise in Dementia Care
At Hovi Care, we understand the challenges that come with dementia. If you’re concerned about dementia symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hovi Care for support and guidance. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing personalized and evidence-based services to enhance the well-being and quality of life for persons with dementia and their families. Hovi Care professionals share their knowledge.
Visit our Senior services page to learn more about our services and how we can help.
Disclaimer: This content is produced with the help of AI. It is then reviewed and edited by our authors and medical professionals.