Sensay Blog

Dementia is a broad term that describes a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. It encompasses various conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common cause. Recognizing the early signs of dementia can be crucial for early intervention and management. Here’s a detailed exploration of the early signs of dementia, offering insight and guidance for individuals and families who might be concerned about themselves or loved ones.

Understanding Dementia

Dementia affects memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgment. However, consciousness is not affected. The impairment in cognitive function is commonly accompanied, and occasionally preceded, by deterioration in emotional control, social behavior, or motivation.

Early Signs of Dementia

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

One of the most common signs of early dementia is memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information. This is not just occasional forgetfulness, like misplacing keys, but more significant memory loss that affects daily activities, such as forgetting important dates or events, asking for the same information over and over, or increasingly needing to rely on memory aids (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own.

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems

Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They might have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may also have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before.

3. Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships

For some people, vision problems are a sign of dementia. This can lead to difficulty with balance or trouble reading. They may also have problems judging distance and determining color or contrast, causing issues with driving.

4. New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing

People with dementia may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word, or call things by the wrong name (e.g., referring to a “watch” as a “hand-clock”).

5. Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

A person with dementia may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time.

6. Decreased or Poor Judgment

Individuals may experience changes in judgment or decision-making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean.

7. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities

A person with dementia may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects, or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced.

8. Changes in Mood and Personality

The mood and personalities of people with dementia can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, with friends, or when out of their comfort zone.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of dementia provides the best chance for improving quality of life through the management of symptoms and allows for the most effective use of available treatments. It also gives time to plan for the future, including legal and financial planning, and to establish a care team that can support the individual through their journey with dementia.

Conclusion

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these early signs of dementia, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention can provide significant benefits, including access to treatment options, strategies to manage symptoms, and support services to help maintain independence and quality of life for as long as possible. Remember, dementia is a progressive condition, but with the right support and interventions, individuals can live fulfilling lives.