Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects cognitive abilities such as memory, behavior, and communication. It is estimated that by 2030, the number of people living with dementia worldwide will reach 75.6 million.

While the risk of dementia increases with age, it is not a normal part of aging. Early detection and treatment of dementia can improve quality of life and extend independent living. Here are some of the early signs of dementia in seniors over 80:.

1. Memory Loss

Memory loss is often one of the first signs of dementia. Seniors may forget important dates, appointments, or conversations. They may ask for the same information repeatedly, or they may struggle to recall recent events.

While some forgetfulness is normal as we age, memory loss that disrupts daily activities could be a sign of dementia.

2. Difficulty with Routine Tasks

Seniors with dementia may struggle with routine tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or managing finances. They may forget the steps necessary to complete a task, or they may struggle with following a recipe or other instructions.

They may also have difficulty with activities that require decision making or problem solving.

3. Language Problems

Seniors with dementia may have difficulty finding the right words, or they may mix up words or names. They may also struggle with following a conversation or understanding instructions.

As dementia progresses, communication becomes more difficult, and seniors may become increasingly isolated and withdrawn.

4. Personality Changes

Seniors with dementia may experience changes in personality or behavior. They may become irritable, suspicious, or anxious. They may also become more impulsive or engage in risky behaviors.

These changes may be subtle at first but become more pronounced as dementia progresses.

5. Mood Swings

Seniors with dementia may experience mood swings or become easily agitated or upset. They may also become depressed or withdraw from social activities.

These changes may be related to changes in the brain or difficulty with communication, or they may be related to frustration over memory loss or difficulty with routine tasks.

6. Visual-Spatial Problems

Seniors with dementia may have difficulty with visual-spatial tasks such as recognizing faces or reading maps. They may also have difficulty with depth perception or judging distance.

These changes can make it difficult to navigate and may increase the risk of falls.

7. Confusion or Disorientation

Seniors with dementia may become confused or disoriented, especially in unfamiliar environments. They may forget where they are or how they got there. They may also become confused about time, trying to leave for appointments that are days or weeks away.

8. Poor Judgement

Seniors with dementia may exhibit poor judgement or decision making. They may make impulsive decisions or engage in risky behaviors such as wandering away from home.

They may also have difficulty with financial management, such as forgetting to pay bills or giving money to scam artists.

9. Difficulty with Familiar Activities

Seniors with dementia may have difficulty with familiar activities such as driving, playing a favorite game, or using a tool. They may forget the rules or steps necessary to complete a task, or they may struggle with coordinating movements.

These changes may make it difficult to participate in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyable.

Seniors with dementia may become withdrawn from social activities, preferring to stay at home instead of participating in social events or hobbies.

They may also have difficulty with communication, making it difficult to maintain relationships with family and friends.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. A diagnosis of dementia can be difficult, but early detection and treatment can improve quality of life and extend independent living.