What are Some Early Signs of Dementia?

Noticing the early signs of dementia can make all the difference when it comes to how this condition progresses. When dementia is diagnosed during the early stages, there is a chance that medication can be prescribed to the patient to slow the disease down and minimize damage to the brain. If you are concerned for an elderly relative or friend, then it is worth understanding how to spot the early signs of dementia so that you can help them get the right care and support as early as possible if needed.

Memory Loss

Memory loss does not always mean that somebody has dementia, as it is quite common for people to have problems with their memory as they get older. However, if you have noticed that your relative is forgetting things more frequently, especially if they are forgetting information that they have recently learned, then this might be cause for concern. For example, they may ask you the same question over and over or repeat things as they have forgotten what they have just told you.

Problems With Daily Tasks

Somebody with dementia might forget how to do everyday tasks that they have been doing for many years, such as making a cup of coffee or tea, driving to a familiar location, or household chores. Problems with money and managing a budget are often quite common with people who are developing dementia, even if they have never struggled with this aspect of their life in the past. If a parent needs to move into a nursing home, then search for memory care Creve Coeur, as this can help.

Mood Swings and Depression

Mood swings and depressive symptoms can often be one of the earliest signs of dementia. People with this condition may lose interest in taking part in hobbies and interests that they once enjoyed or may be reluctant to spend time with other people. They may spend more time sleeping and find basic tasks difficult to motivate themselves to do. Dementia can also cause unexplained mood swings and changes in personality. You may notice that the person is more panicky, anxious, paranoid, sad, or confused than normal.

Confusion

Confusion is a common early symptom of dementia. You may notice that the person becomes confused when in familiar places, forgetting how they got there or why they are there. You may also notice that they are often losing things or that things are turning up in random places. People with dementia might get very upset if they think that they have been burgled, only to find that they have put the item they think has been stolen in a random place where it shouldn’t be, such as putting their phone in the cutlery drawer or putting the TV remote in the bathroom.

Dementia is a condition that causes a deterioration in cognition. If you have an elderly relative, then understanding the early signs and symptoms of this condition is important to ensure that they get the right help and support should they develop it.