Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Early detection is key in managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life for as long as possible. The ten key signs to watch for are based on guidelines from the Alzheimer’s Association and other experts.
Ten Key Signs of Dementia
1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life
Everyone forgets things occasionally, but frequent and increasing memory lapses, such as forgetting important dates, repeatedly asking the same questions, or relying heavily on memory aids, could signal dementia.
Example: Forgetting recently learned information or repeatedly asking for the same details.
2. Difficulty Planning or Problem-Solving
People with dementia may struggle with tasks that involve numbers, sequences, or multi-step processes.
Example: Trouble following a recipe, managing finances, or paying bills.
3. Challenges Completing Familiar Tasks
Tasks that were once second nature, such as driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules of a favorite game, may become difficult.
Example: Getting lost on the way to a well-known place.
4. Confusion About Time or Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time is common in dementia. A person might also forget where they are or how they got there.
Example: Showing up for an appointment on the wrong day or repeatedly getting lost in familiar surroundings.
5. Trouble Understanding Visual and Spatial Relationships
Changes in vision can be a sign of dementia, particularly if it affects depth perception, color differentiation, or the ability to read.
Example: Difficulty judging distance, leading to trouble driving or navigating stairs.
6. Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing
People with dementia may have trouble following or joining conversations. They might pause frequently to find the right word or call things by the wrong name.
Example: Calling a “watch” a “hand clock” or frequently losing their train of thought mid-sentence.
7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
Everyone misplaces their keys sometimes, but people with dementia might put items in unusual places and forget how to retrace their steps to find them.
Example: Finding the remote control in the refrigerator and being unable to explain how it got there.
8. Decreased or Poor Judgment
A decline in decision-making abilities, particularly in financial matters or personal care, may become apparent.
Example: Giving away large sums of money to telemarketers or neglecting hygiene and grooming.
9. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities
A person with dementia might pull away from hobbies, social engagements, or work due to difficulty keeping up or fear of embarrassment.
Example: A once-active person avoiding book club meetings or skipping family gatherings.
10. Changes in Mood and Personality
Dementia can affect mood and behavior. People may become anxious, irritable, depressed, or suspicious, particularly in situations that are outside their comfort zone.
Example: Sudden bursts of anger or a newfound reluctance to leave the house.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you or a loved one are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Many conditions, including some that are treatable, can mimic dementia. Early evaluation can help determine the cause and allow for timely intervention.
Key Steps:
- Schedule a doctor’s visit for a thorough assessment.
- Keep a symptom journal to track changes over time.
- Learn about treatment options and support resources.
Signs and Symptoms of Different Types of Dementia
Understanding the early signs of dementia can help individuals and families seek help sooner, ensuring a better quality of life. While there is no cure for most forms of dementia, early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing the symptoms and planning for the future.
While the general signs apply broadly, specific types of dementia come with distinct symptoms.
Alzheimer’s Disease
The most common form of dementia, characterized by:
- Persistent short-term memory loss (e.g., forgetting conversations).
- Difficulty with complex thinking and problem-solving.
- Gradual personality changes, such as apathy or withdrawal.
- Wandering or confusion about location.
Vascular Dementia
Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke:
- Abrupt onset of symptoms.
- Difficulty concentrating or planning.
- Impaired judgment.
- Physical symptoms like unsteady gait or difficulty walking.
Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)
Associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain:
- Visual hallucinations (seeing people or objects that aren’t there).
- Fluctuations in alertness and attention.
- Parkinsonism (tremors, stiffness, or slow movement).
- REM sleep behavior disorder (acting out dreams).
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
Often affects younger individuals and primarily impacts personality and behavior:
- Drastic personality changes (e.g., becoming impulsive or inappropriate).
- Language difficulties, such as trouble speaking or understanding words.
- Apathy or loss of empathy.
Mixed Dementia
A combination of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia or other forms:
- Symptoms of multiple types of dementia, such as memory loss combined with poor judgment and physical difficulties.
Parkinson’s Disease Dementia
Develops in some individuals with Parkinson’s disease:
- Similar to LBD, with visual hallucinations and motor symptoms.
- Gradual cognitive decline after years of Parkinson’s symptoms.
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)
A rare and rapidly progressive form of dementia:
- Sudden onset of symptoms like confusion and mood changes.
- Involuntary muscle jerks (myoclonus).
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing.
The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners is dedicated to making a positive difference in dementia care. With seminars, webinars, and CEU content available, caregivers are able to stay up-to-date with the latest in treatments and techniques.
