Dementia is an umbrella term for a set of symptoms that result from damage to the brain such as forgetfulness, difficulty with speech and language, problem-solving, confusion, and mood swings.

The causes of dementia are not fully understood, but researchers suggest that some genetic and environmental factors may increase the risk of developing the disease.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is one of the stages leading to dementia, and it is marked by a decline in cognitive abilities that is noticeable to the individual and others around them, but does not interfere with their daily activities.

MCI can progress to dementia, but not everyone with MCI develops dementia.

Memory Problems

One of the most common symptoms of dementia is memory loss. Memory loss can occur due to various reasons such as aging, anxiety, and depression.

However, the memory loss in dementia is significant and affects the individual’s ability to remember recent events, names, and faces. People with early signs of dementia may forget important information such as appointments, to pay bills or they may misplace items frequently. They might also repeat their questions or stories even after being told the answer several times.

Difficulty with Executive Functioning

Executive functioning refers to the cognitive abilities that involve planning, organizing, problem-solving, and decision-making. People with early signs of dementia may have difficulty with these abilities.

They might find it hard to follow a recipe, balance a checkbook, or keep track of appointments. They may also struggle with initiating or completing tasks and take much longer to complete them than they did before.

Changes in Mood and Behavior

Dementia can cause changes in mood and behavior. People with early signs of dementia may experience irritability, anxiety, depression, or apathy.

They may withdraw from social activities that they used to enjoy and may have difficulty engaging in conversations. They might also become more easily agitated and respond negatively to changes in routine or unexpected events.

Difficulty with Language and Communication

As dementia progresses, individuals might struggle with language and communication.

They may have difficulty finding the right words to express themselves, seem to lose their train of thought during a conversation, or have trouble following a conversation. They might also have difficulty understanding others and responding appropriately to what they are saying.

Related Article Early signs of dementia: recognizing the symptoms

Difficulty with Spatial Orientation

People with early signs of dementia may have difficulty with spatial orientation or perception. They may get lost easily or have trouble finding their way around familiar places.

They might also struggle with judging distances, depth perception, and may experience difficulty with coordination and balance.

Changes in Sleep Patterns

Changes in sleep patterns are also noticeable in early signs of dementia. Individuals may find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep through the night. They may also experience restlessness or wandering at night.

Poor Judgment

People with early signs of dementia may also exhibit poor judgment. They may make impulsive decisions that are risky or inappropriate.

They may also fall prey to scams, have difficulty assessing the safety of their surroundings, or neglect personal hygiene.

Loss of Interest in Hobbies and Activities

Individuals with early signs of dementia may lose interest in hobbies and activities that they used to enjoy. They may stop attending social events or participating in activities that they previously found pleasurable.

They might also struggle with following their favorite hobbies due to loss of memory and difficulty with executive functioning in dementia.

Difficulty with Balance and Gait

Difficulty with balance and gait is common in advanced stages of dementia. However, some individuals might experience these symptoms in the early stages of the disease. They may have difficulty maintaining balance and walking without assistance.

They might also shuffle their feet or have a more hesitant gait than usual.

In Conclusion

Early signs of dementia can be difficult to recognize. Sometimes, people might mistake them for normal aging. However, a persistent change in cognitive abilities requires a medical evaluation to determine the cause.

Early detection of dementia can help the individual and their family members plan for management of the disease, access support services, plan for the future, and discuss the end-of-life preferences.