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10 Warning Signs Of Dementia
Recognizing the early signs of dementia can make all the difference in getting your loved one the support they need. Some of the first things you might notice are memory slips that go beyond the usual, like forgetting recent conversations or important dates. Tasks that used to be easy—like managing bills or following a recipe—may suddenly feel challenging. Communication can also be impacted; they may struggle to find the right words, keep up with conversations, or even repeat themselves without realizing it.
You might also notice shifts in their mood or behavior—things like increased anxiety, confusion, or pulling back from social activities they once enjoyed. Poor judgment, trouble with decision-making, and even getting disoriented in familiar places can be telling signs too. While everyone has those “senior moments,” these kinds of ongoing changes are signals that it might be time to seek a professional assessment.
Early detection isn’t just about diagnosis; it’s about getting a clearer path forward. With early awareness, you can make plans, explore treatment options, and build a support system that benefits everyone involved.
- Memory Loss: Forgetting recently learned information or important dates, asking for the same information repeatedly.
2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling with tasks that used to be routine, such as cooking, managing finances, or driving.
3. Difficulty Communicating: Struggling to find the right words or following conversations, leading to repetitive speech or trouble expressing thoughts.
4. Disorientation: Getting lost in familiar places, confusion about time, people, or locations.
5. Impaired Judgment: Making poor decisions, especially in finances or personal hygiene, and lacking insight into their own behaviors.
6. Problems with Abstract Thinking: Difficulty with complex mental tasks like planning, organizing, or solving problems.
7. Misplacing Items: Putting things in unusual places and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
8. Changes in Mood or Personality: Experiencing mood swings, becoming easily upset, or exhibiting uncharacteristic behavior.
9. Withdrawal from Activities: Losing interest in hobbies, social activities, or work, and withdrawing from social interactions.
10. Changes in Visual Perception: Difficulty interpreting visual information, which can lead to problems with balance, judging distances, or recognizing objects and faces.
Everyone has occasional memory slips, but if these signs start to pile up, it’s worth getting a professional assessment. Early detection allows you to plan for the future and get the right treatment and support, which can make a huge difference for both your loved one and your family.
Resources:
Talk to your loved one’s healthcare team
The National Family Caregivers Association
*Your local Area Agency on Aging
Every state has an Area Agency on Aging that provides services and support for seniors and their caregivers. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to see what resources are available in your community, such as respite care, support groups, or transportation assistance.