10 early signs of dementia to pay attention to
Dementia isn’t a normal part of aging, and early symptoms can be subtle. However, one occasional lapse in memory does not mean someone has dementia. Depression, poor sleep, medications, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, hearing loss, and other conditions can produce similar symptoms.
Common early warning signs include:
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Memory loss that disrupts daily life — repeatedly forgetting recently learned information, conversations, or appointments.
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Difficulty planning or solving problems — trouble following a familiar recipe, managing finances, or keeping track of routine tasks.
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Difficulty completing familiar tasks — struggling with activities previously performed without difficulty.
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Confusion about time or place — getting lost in familiar surroundings or losing track of dates and circumstances.
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Problems with visual or spatial abilities — difficulty judging distance, recognizing objects, or navigating familiar places.
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New problems with speaking or writing — struggling to find common words or follow conversations.
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Misplacing things in unusual ways — putting objects in inappropriate places and being unable to retrace steps.
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Poor judgment — unusual financial decisions, inappropriate behavior, or reduced awareness of risks.
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Withdrawal from activities — losing interest in hobbies, social activities, or work that previously mattered.
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Changes in personality or mood — unusual anxiety, irritability, suspiciousness, apathy, or emotional changes.
These symptoms are not specific to dementia. A medical evaluation can identify potentially reversible causes and determine whether cognitive testing is appropriate. (National Institute on Aging)
When to act
If cognitive changes are progressive and interfering with everyday activities, arrange an appointment with a healthcare professional rather than waiting for them to become severe.
If confusion or memory problems appear suddenly, particularly with weakness, facial drooping, speech difficulty, severe headache, or loss of balance, treat it as an emergency because stroke or another acute medical problem may be responsible.
