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The early signs of dementia are something more than just normal memory loss. Dementia is a progressive condition that exacerbates over time and can eventually interfere with a person’s ability to perform daily activities.
While dementia is most commonly associated with aging, it's not a normal part of aging and can affect people of all ages. In this article, we will discuss the early signs of dementia.
Early signs of dementia
Here are a few:
Memory Loss
It's often one of the first symptoms of dementia. It may include forgetting important dates, events, or appointments, misplacing items or objects, or repeating the same questions or stories.
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People with dementia may also struggle to remember new information, such as the names of people they have just met or the details of a recent conversation.
Difficulty with Language
Another early sign of dementia is difficulty with language. That may include difficulty finding the right words or losing their train of thought during a conversation.
A person with dementia may also struggle to follow or participate in a conversation or understand written material.
Impaired Judgment and Decision-Making
Dementia can also affect a person’s ability to make sound decisions or judgments. That can manifest as poor decision-making, like making impulsive or inappropriate choices or demonstrating poor judgment in social situations. A person with dementia may also have difficulty planning or organizing activities.
Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks
Dementia can interfere with a person’s ability to complete familiar tasks, like cooking, driving, or managing their finances.
They may struggle to follow a recipe or use a familiar tool, such as a computer or phone. They may also have difficulty remembering how to get to a familiar location, such as their workplace or grocery store.
Changes in Mood or Personality
A person with early signs of dementia may experience changes in their mood or personality.
They may become more apathetic, irritable, or anxious, or experience sudden mood swings. They may also lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed or may withdraw from social situations.
Confusion or Disorientation
People with dementia may become confused or disoriented, even in familiar settings. They may forget where they are or how they got there, or become disoriented with time, such as not knowing what day it is or confusing morning with night.
Difficulty with Spatial Awareness
Other early signs of dementia can also affect a person’s spatial awareness, making it difficult to judge distances or navigate through familiar environments. A person with dementia may bump into objects, have difficulty judging doorways or steps, or become lost in familiar locations.
It's important to note that not all memory loss or forgetfulness are indicative of early signs of dementia. Many people experience occasional forgetfulness, especially as they age. However, if you or someone you know experience persistent or worsening symptoms, it may be worth speaking with a healthcare professional.
Is dementia curable?
While there's no cure for dementia, early signs of dementia can help slow the progression of the condition and improve quality of life of those affected.
The treatment plan for dementia depends on the type and severity of the condition and the individual's overall health and medical history. Some common treatments for early signs of dementia include:
- Medication: There are several medications available that can help manage symptoms of dementia like memory loss, confusion, and agitation.
- Therapy: Therapy can also be an important part of the treatment plan for dementia. Cognitive therapy, which focuses on improving memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, has been shown to be effective in improving cognitive function in people with dementia.
- Lifestyle modifications: Making certain lifestyle modifications can also help manage symptoms of dementia.
How to prevent dementia
Here's how it can be done:
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise has been shown to improve brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein and low in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fat can help reduce risk of dementia.
Keep brain active: Engage in activities that challenge the brain, such as reading, puzzles, and learning new skills. That can help build cognitive reserve and reduce risk of cognitive decline.
Protect head from injury: Head injuries, such as concussions, can increase risk of dementia. Wear a helmet when participating in activities that have a risk of head injuries, such as cycling or contact sports.
Dementia is a complex condition that affects a person’s cognitive abilities, including memory, thinking, and communication.
Early signs of dementia may include memory loss and difficulty with language. If you or someone you know experience persistent or worsening symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
