Dementia is a cognitive disorder that causes both memory and cognitive difficulties. Dementia is not just one disease, but an umbrella term for many different conditions. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s Disease followed by vascular dementia. Common causes for this condition include head trauma, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.

While common risk factors for dementia include advanced age, excess alcohol consumption, diabetes, depression, smoking, and social isolation. If you or someone close to you shows signs of losing memory, it’s important to get a diagnosis from a healthcare professional. Let’s discuss the early warning signs of dementia and how they can be identified:

1. Memory loss

Loss of memory is normal as we age and can be exhibited in many ways. Someone may struggle to remember familiar names, recent events, or where they put their keys, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they have dementia. Forgetfulness is normal when we are stressed, tired, and as we age. However, if someone forgets important milestones or events in their life and happens more often than usual, this could be a sign of dementia. Patients with dementia may struggle to remember new information even after being told the same thing multiple times.

2. Behavioral changes

This is another early warning sign of dementia that family members and friends often observe. Someone with memory impairment might exhibit signs of agitation, withdrawal, or increased anxiety when faced with new information or situations they are not used to. If you notice your loved one becoming increasingly frustrated during conversations, it could indicate other memory trouble symptoms. There can be challenges with planning, problem solving, and completing routine tasks. Someone who has trouble making a cup of coffee or getting dressed in the morning like they have many times before, might have dementia. Individuals who become confused in the middle of a familiar task may be suffering early memory loss. Additionally, difficulty following conversations, remembering new information, or making decisions independently that weren’t previously an issue for them, may also be experiencing dementia. However, keep in mind that challenging behaviors can also occur as a side effect of certain medications or due to other underlying medical conditions.

3. Increased confusion about time and place

It’s not uncommon for those with dementia to become confused about dates, places, and times. For example, someone living in the same house might believe that it belongs to a neighbor or family member because they forget where they live. If you notice your loved one becoming more confused about their surroundings and having trouble finding their way home, take note of this as well.

4. Problem solving difficulties

Another common early warning sign of dementia is an increase in challenging behaviors when faced with new information or challenges that weren’t previously a problem for them. The individual may suddenly take a lot of time solving even simple problems (i.e., getting dressed) or they may become frustrated during conversations because they have trouble following conversations and may become increasingly irritable or defensive.

5. Challenges understanding visual information

Patients with dementia might struggle to understand visual information, such as graphs and charts, or even calendars. If you get to notice that your relative or friend is confused or unable to keep track of finances, medications, or current events, it could mean they are experiencing memory issues.

6. Difficulties with speech and communication

Someone with dementia might have difficulty finding the right words when having a conversation. They may also struggle to remember how to speak, or use a lack of facial expressions during conversations. Hesitance when speaking is a common early warning sign of dementia. If you notice your loved one struggling to find the right words when conversing with others in a chronic manner, it could indicate signs of memory trouble.