10 Most Common Early Signs of Dementia

As people age, concerns about memory lapses or behavioural changes can spark fears of dementia. Some of the early signs of dementia may appear similar to normal ageing, but remember these symptoms aren't always signs of dementia; they might be completely unrelated and could be caused by other medical conditions. Nonetheless, catching these signs early can help people get better results and more help.

Around 982,000 people in the UK have dementia, and that number is expected to grow to 1.4 million by 2040. Early diagnosis and treatment are very important for managing the disease well. This guide looks at the 10 most common early signs of dementia and gives families and carers information that can help them know when to get professional help.

1. Memory lapses that affect everyday life

Forgetting things occasionally is a natural part of ageing, but frequent memory lapses that disrupt daily life can indicate early dementia. A person might forget recently learned information or important dates or rely heavily on reminders and family members for simple tasks they previously managed independently.

Typical age-related memory loss:

• Occasionally forgetting names or appointments but remembering them later.

Early dementia signs:

• Forgetting appointments or conversations.
• Losing items like keys or wallets repeatedly.
• Struggling with short-term memory while retaining long-term memories.

These memory problems can often lead to frustration and worry, both for the person experiencing them and their loved ones. If these issues persist, it might be time to consult a memory clinic for a potential early diagnosis.

2. Struggles with planning or problem-solving

Dementia can make tasks that require planning or problem-solving increasingly challenging. For instance, managing household bills, following recipes, or organising schedules may become confusing and overwhelming.

Warning signs:

• Difficulty concentrating on tasks.
• Taking much longer to complete simple activities.
• Struggling with basic maths or financial planning.

These changes in thinking skills might seem minor at first but they can become more pronounced over time. Addressing them early is essential to rule out other conditions, like thyroid problems or the effects of high blood pressure.

3. Difficulty with routine activities

People with early dementia often struggle to complete tasks they’ve done countless times. Activities like preparing meals, using household appliances, or navigating to familiar places can become perplexing.

Examples:

• Forgetting the steps in a recipe they’ve cooked for years.
• Getting lost on their way to a familiar location.
• Confusion while performing everyday tasks like dressing or cleaning.

Such difficulties are early warning signs of cognitive changes, possibly linked to vascular dementia or early onset Alzheimer’s.

4. Disorientation with time or place

Losing track of time or forgetting where they are can be distressing for someone in the early stages of dementia. They might struggle to recall the day, date, or even their current location.

Signs to watch for:

• Confusion about the season or year.
• Forgetting how they arrived at a certain place.
• Difficulty keeping track of scheduled events.

This disorientation often stems from damage to brain cells, a hallmark of conditions like Lewy body dementia or mixed dementia. Encouraging routines and reminders can help reduce anxiety for those affected.

5. Challenges with visual and spatial perception

Dementia can cause visual and spatial difficulties that impact daily life. This may include trouble judging distances, reading, or recognising familiar places.

Common symptoms:

• Misjudging steps or kerbs while walking.
• Struggling with driving due to poor depth perception.
• Difficulty recognising faces or objects.

While some vision changes may result from ageing or treatable conditions like cataracts, persistent spatial challenges could signal dementia-related changes.

6. Language difficulties in speech or writing

Finding the right words or following conversations can become difficult for those with early dementia. They may pause mid-sentence or substitute incorrect words, making communication frustrating.

Examples:

• Calling a kettle a “water pot.”
• Repeating themselves often in conversation.
• Struggling to express thoughts clearly.

Such language issues may stem from frontotemporal dementia, which affects areas of the brain linked to communication and behaviour.

7. Misplacing items and forgetting how to find them

Misplacing objects occasionally is normal, but regularly putting things in unusual places—like leaving shoes in the fridge—can indicate dementia. Often, individuals are unable to retrace their steps to find lost items.

Related challenges:

• Accusing others of stealing misplaced belongings.
• Losing items critical to daily life, such as glasses or medication.
• Forgetting the purpose of an item they’ve found.

This behaviour, tied to changes in thinking skills, may worsen over time and significantly impact daily tasks.

8. Poor decision-making or judgment

Poor judgment is another early sign of dementia. This might involve risky financial decisions, inappropriate social interactions, or neglecting personal hygiene.

Warning signs:

• Giving large sums of money to strangers or scams.
• Dressing inappropriately for the weather.
• Ignoring obvious health concerns.

These issues are often associated with cognitive decline, and while they can seem minor initially, they may indicate underlying problems in mental function.

9. Avoidance of work or social interactions

Withdrawing from activities and socialising can be a sign of early dementia. This avoidance often stems from difficulties keeping up with conversations or remembering details.

Typical behaviours:

• Skipping hobbies or events they once enjoyed.
• Avoiding friends or family gatherings.
• Feeling overwhelmed in group settings.

Early dementia symptoms, like these, can sometimes mimic mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Addressing these issues early with support from a care provider can make a significant difference.

10. Noticeable shifts in mood and personality

Changes in mood and personality can be early indicators of dementia. Someone might become anxious, irritable, or unusually suspicious. They may also exhibit personality changes, such as becoming more introverted or losing interest in relationships.

Signs to note:

• Rapid mood swings without clear reasons.
• Uncharacteristic behaviours, like being overly dependent or confrontational.
• Increased fear or confusion in unfamiliar environments.

These shifts can significantly impact daily life for both the individual and their loved ones. Addressing these early can improve the overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Seeing these early signs of dementia doesn't always mean that someone has the disease. Memory loss, uncertainty, or trouble with daily tasks could also be signs of other conditions that can be treated. But knowing these signs and getting help from a professional early on can lead to better support and control.

When someone shows signs of dementia, Tiggo Care's dedicated careers help them with kindness. We want to improve every client's quality of life by doing things like helping them with familiar jobs and being there for them emotionally. If these kinds of changes are happening to you or someone you care about, we can help you get the care you need.

Contact Tiggo Care today to learn more about our services for people with dementia. Early support can make a world of difference.