Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects a person’s cognitive abilities, including memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. It is a common misconception that memory loss is a normal part of aging.

While mild forgetfulness may be expected as we grow older, significant memory problems can be indicators of a more serious underlying condition such as dementia.

1. Forgetfulness

One of the earliest and most common signs of dementia is forgetfulness. While occasional memory lapses are common for everyone, individuals with dementia often struggle to recall recent events, appointments, conversations, or names of familiar people.

They may repeatedly ask the same questions or rely heavily on memory aids and reminders.

2. Difficulty with Planning and Problem-Solving

Dementia can impact a person’s ability to plan and solve problems effectively. Simple tasks that once seemed effortless, like following a recipe or organizing a shopping list, become increasingly challenging.

Individuals may experience difficulties in understanding and executing steps required for completing complex tasks.

3. Confusion and Disorientation

Dementia can cause individuals to become disoriented in familiar surroundings. They may lose track of time, dates, or seasons.

This disorientation can extend to people as well, as dementia progresses, individuals may struggle to recognize familiar faces, friends, or family members. They may also have difficulty finding their way back home from familiar locations.

4. Language Impairment

A decline in language abilities is another warning sign of dementia. Individuals may struggle to find the right words to express themselves or may forget common words altogether.

They may experience challenges following or participating in conversations and may exhibit excessive repetition of phrases or stories.

5. Poor Judgment and Decision-Making

Dementia can affect a person’s ability to make sound judgments or decisions. Individuals may display poor judgment regarding personal hygiene, finances, or safety.

They might engage in risky behaviors without understanding the potential consequences.

6. Mood and Personality Changes

Personality and mood changes can be observed in individuals with dementia. They may exhibit rapid mood swings, becoming unusually confused, suspicious, fearful, or even aggressive in certain situations.

These changes can strain relationships with loved ones.

7. Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks

Another warning sign is struggling to complete familiar tasks. Individuals may face challenges while driving, managing finances, following a recipe, or participating in hobbies that were previously enjoyable and easy for them.

People with dementia may start to withdraw from social activities or hobbies.

They may feel overwhelmed by the cognitive demands of these activities or struggle to keep up with conversations, leading to isolation and a decline in their overall well-being.

9. Misplacing Items and Being Unable to Retrace Steps

Dementia can cause individuals to misplace objects and have difficulty retracing their steps to find them. This behavior can go beyond simply misplacing keys or glasses and may involve putting items in unusual or inappropriate places.

They may accuse others of stealing or hiding their belongings.

10. Decline in Performance at Work or in Daily Life

If an individual starts experiencing a decline in their performance at work or no longer maintains their previous level of independence in daily activities, it could be an early warning sign of dementia.

This decline may be seen in poor decision-making, difficulty completing tasks, or struggles with memory and concentration.