Identify Early Dementia Signs to Protect Your Loved Ones

Every year, over 10 million people are diagnosed with dementia worldwide, but many individuals miss critical early warning signs. A 2023 survey conducted by the Alzheimer’s Society revealed that one in three people who notice these signs in themselves or a loved one remain silent for at least a month. Alarmingly, nearly a quarter wait six months or longer before seeking medical advice. The hesitance is not necessarily due to fear; rather, many individuals lack clarity on what constitutes normal aging versus potential dementia indicators.

Experts emphasize that this delay can have significant consequences. Early intervention can provide valuable time for planning future care and even slowing disease progression. “There’s a lot more hope than there was 20 years ago,” noted Karen Schelberg, care consultation director of the Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Recent advancements include newly approved medications that can delay cognitive decline by targeting beta-amyloid, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes also play a crucial role in enhancing brain health. “Exercise not only slows down disease, but it can also boost mood and help improve sleep disruptions that are common in dementia,” explained Dr. Golnaz Yadollahikhales, a neurologist at Cedars Sinai. Avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, maintaining a healthy diet, staying socially active, and effectively managing chronic conditions are also beneficial for cognitive function.

Recognizing early signs of dementia is vital, as many are not what one might typically expect. “It’s a common notion that only people with memory problems can be diagnosed with dementia, but behavioral changes or language difficulties can also indicate a neurodegenerative disease,” Dr. Yadollahikhales added. Here are five early signs of dementia that are often overlooked.

Short-Term Memory Loss

Occasional forgetfulness is a part of life, such as misplacing keys or forgetting names. However, an individual in the early stages of dementia may exhibit more frequent memory lapses. They might struggle to recall recently learned information or find themselves repeating stories. Dr. Gregory Day, a behavioral neurologist at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, observes practical issues that indicate memory red flags. “I’m looking for people who have made mistakes with medications or difficulty keeping track of appointments,” he stated. Missing appointments or getting lost on familiar routes can also signal emerging memory issues.

Language Difficulties

While everyone occasionally struggles to find the right word, specific speech problems may indicate cognitive decline. These include frequently pausing during conversations, difficulty with vocabulary, or misnaming objects. The Alzheimer’s Association highlights these speech-related challenges as potential early signs of dementia.

Planning and Multitasking Issues

Difficulties in planning and executing tasks can signal cognitive changes. If someone who used to manage social events with ease finds it increasingly challenging, it may indicate underlying issues. “If it just doesn’t seem like it’s happening well, or it’s happening with a lot more effort, that would be a sign that there are executive function issues,” noted Dr. Heather Whitson, a professor of medicine at Duke University School of Medicine.

Personality Changes

Significant personality shifts can be an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Armen Moughamian, medical director of the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center, warns that new-onset anxiety, depression, or irritability in older adults might suggest cognitive decline. Changes in behavior, such as losing interest in social activities or exhibiting unusual sexual behavior, should not be dismissed.

Financial Difficulties

Increasing susceptibility to financial scams can also signal cognitive decline. Dr. Jori Fleisher, an associate professor of neurological sciences at Rush University, underscores the importance of monitoring financial behaviors. “If a loved one falls victim to a scam, it may be worth checking on their cognitive health,” she advised. Problems such as overdue bills or erratic spending habits can indicate cognitive impairment, especially in individuals who are typically careful with their finances.

Recognizing these signs early can lead to prompt medical intervention and better management of the condition. As Dr. Judith Heidebrink, a neurologist and clinical professor at the University of Michigan Health, emphasizes, “There’s a lot of reasoning and memory that go into financial tasks, and money management errors can certainly be an early way that people experience changes.”

It is essential to seek medical advice if you notice changes in yourself or a loved one. Addressing concerns promptly can make a significant difference in the trajectory of dementia care and support.