Spotting the Early Signs of Dementia: What to Look For

Dementia is a word that can feel heavy, but understanding its early signs can make all the difference in getting your loved one the help they need. While occasional forgetfulness is normal as we age, dementia involves more than just “senior moments.” Let’s explore some of the early symptoms and what they might look like in everyday life.

1. Memory Problems That Disrupt Daily Life
   Forgetting a name or misplacing keys happens to everyone. But with dementia, it’s more than that—your loved one might ask the same question repeatedly, forget important dates or events, or rely heavily on reminders and notes to get through the day.
2. Trouble Finding the Right Words
   Have you noticed them struggling to join a conversation or forgetting common words? It might feel like they know what they want to say but can’t quite get it out. This can lead to frustration and hesitation to speak at all.
3. Confusion with Time or Place
   Getting disoriented in familiar places, losing track of time, or forgetting how they got somewhere are common early signs. For example, they might head to a store and forget why they went or how to get back home.
4. Difficulty Completing Everyday Tasks
   Tasks they’ve done for years, like balancing a checkbook or following a recipe, may start to feel overwhelming. They could lose track of the steps or struggle with focus.
5. Poor Judgment
   You might notice lapses in decision-making, such as giving away large sums of money to telemarketers or neglecting their usual hygiene. Changes in judgment can sometimes be subtle but have a significant impact.
6. Losing Interest in Hobbies or Socializing
   If your loved one starts pulling away from friends, family, or activities they’ve always loved, it could be an early sign. This withdrawal often stems from a mix of confusion and frustration, rather than a lack of interest.
7. Personality or Mood Changes
   Someone with dementia might become more anxious, irritable, or depressed. They could also be more easily upset or show changes in their usual personality traits.

Why Early Detection Matters

Recognizing the signs early can lead to a proper diagnosis and better planning for the future. Early intervention can help manage symptoms, slow progression, and connect your loved one to resources and support.

What to Do Next

If you’re noticing these changes, start by gently discussing them with your loved one. From there, consider reaching out to a doctor who specializes

in memory and cognitive health. Remember, you’re not alone—there’s a whole community of caregivers, professionals, and resources here to help.
Caring for someone with dementia is a journey, but knowledge is one of your best tools. By recognizing the early signs, you’re taking a vital step in ensuring your loved one gets the care and support they deserve.