Dementia is a term used to describe a range of symptoms that affect the brain’s ability to think, remember, and reason. It is commonly associated with aging, but it is not a normal part of the aging process.

Dementia can be caused by various underlying conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and others.

1. Memory Loss

One of the most common signs of dementia is memory loss. People with dementia often have difficulty remembering recent events, names, and places. They may forget important dates or appointments and rely more on memory aids, such as calendars or notes.

While occasional forgetfulness is normal, persistent and progressive memory loss should raise concerns.

2. Difficulty with Planning and Problem-Solving

Dementia affects a person’s ability to plan and solve problems. Tasks that were once routine may become challenging. Planning a meal, managing finances, or following a recipe can become overwhelming for individuals with dementia.

They may struggle with concentration and find it difficult to follow instructions.

3. Impaired Judgment

Another clue of dementia is impaired judgment. People with dementia may exhibit poor decision-making skills. They might ignore personal hygiene, neglect household chores, or make inappropriate comments and gestures.

These changes in judgment can have a significant impact on their daily lives and relationships.

4. Difficulty with Language and Communication

Dementia often affects a person’s ability to speak and understand language. They may struggle to find the right words or forget familiar phrases. Following a conversation may become challenging for them, and they may repeat themselves frequently.

Additionally, they may have difficulty comprehending what others are saying.

5. Disorientation and Confusion

Individuals with dementia often experience disorientation and confusion about time, place, and people. They may get lost in familiar surroundings, forget where they are or how they got there.

They may also confuse family members or close friends with others or mistake present events for past experiences.

6. Changes in Mood and Personality

Dementia can cause significant changes in a person’s mood and personality. They may become increasingly irritable, agitated, anxious, or depressed. Their emotional responses can be exaggerated or unpredictable.

Furthermore, they may withdraw from social activities and show a loss of interest in hobbies and previously enjoyed activities.

7. Difficulty with Routine Tasks

Simple, everyday tasks can become challenging for individuals with dementia. They may struggle with activities like dressing, bathing, or cooking. Following a familiar recipe or operating household appliances can become confusing or dangerous.

These difficulties often stem from the cognitive impairments associated with dementia.

8. Misplacing Objects

A common clue of dementia is misplacing belongings and being unable to retrace steps to find them. Individuals with dementia may put objects in unusual places, such as placing car keys in the refrigerator or a wallet in the dishwasher.

As a result, they may accuse others of stealing, increasing interpersonal tension.

9. Decreased Ability to Adapt to Change

People with dementia often struggle with adapting to changes in their environment or routines. They may become anxious or agitated when faced with changes. They prefer familiar settings and may resist changes in plans or activities.

Any disruption in their routine can confuse and distress them.

10. Impaired Coordination and Motor Skills

Dementia can affect a person’s coordination and motor skills. They may have difficulty performing simple tasks that require fine motor skills, like buttoning a shirt or tying shoelaces.

Their balance and gait may also be affected, leading to unsteadiness and an increased risk of falls.