Noticing the early signs of dementia can help you seek help sooner. Dementia affects memory, thinking, and daily life. It starts slowly, so it can be hard to notice at first. Identifying dementia sooner means better care, more treatments, and a better quality of life for your loved one.
Understanding Early Signs of Dementia Before It Advances
Forgetting Important Things
One of the first early signs of dementia is memory loss. It’s normal to forget small things, but dementia-related memory loss is different. A person may forget important dates, repeat questions, or rely on notes more than before. They might also forget recent conversations or appointments.
Trouble Doing Everyday Tasks
People in the early stages of dementia may have trouble with tasks they used to do quickly. It could mean forgetting how to cook a favorite meal, getting lost while driving, or struggling to follow directions. Things that take multiple steps may seem confusing or frustrating.
Confusion About Time and Place
People with dementia may lose track of time, seasons, or where they are. They might forget how they got somewhere or think an event happened recently when it actually happened years ago. They may also struggle to understand what day or year it is.
Problems with Speaking and Understanding
Dementia can make it hard to find the right words. People may stop in the middle of a conversation or repeat themselves often. They might confuse words, like calling a watch a “hand clock,” or have trouble understanding what others say.
Poor Judgment and Decision-Making
Dementia can affect judgment and decision-making. People may fall for scams, make unsafe choices, or forget to care for themselves. They might wear clothes inappropriate for the weather or have trouble handling money.
Avoiding Social Activities
Dementia can make socializing difficult. People may stop doing hobbies, seeing friends, or attending family events. They may feel confused in conversations or lose interest in things they used to enjoy. Mood swings and sadness are also common.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
Talk to a doctor if you see these signs in a loved one. Detecting dementia in its early stages can help slow it down and give you more time to prepare. While there is no cure, medicine, healthy habits, and support can make life easier.
Knowing the early signs of dementia can help your loved one get the care they need before things get worse.
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