Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Recognizing early signs of dementia can make a significant difference in getting timely medical help and preparing for long-term care options like memory care. If you’re concerned about a loved one, here are 10 early symptoms to watch for.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is not a specific disease but a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think or make decisions that interferes with everyday life. While age-related memory loss is common, dementia is more severe and disrupts daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia.

10 Early Signs of Dementia

1. Memory loss
   One of the most recognized signs of dementia is short-term memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information or important dates and events.
2. Difficulty planning or solving problems
   Struggling to follow a recipe or keep track of bills may indicate a decline in cognitive abilities.
3. Confusion with time or place
   Losing track of dates, seasons or the passage of time is common. Individuals may forget where they are or how they got there.
4. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
   Difficulty reading, judging distance or recognizing colors and contrasts can be early signs of something more than age-related memory loss, particularly for those who don’t have eye-related issues.
5. Problems speaking or writing
   People with dementia may struggle to join or follow a conversation. They might repeat themselves or forget simple words.
6. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
   Putting things in unusual places, then being unable to go back over their steps to find them, is a frequent concern. This can also lead to accusing others of stealing and anger, when the item has simply been misplaced.
7. Decreased or poor judgment
   Examples include giving large amounts of money to telemarketers or neglecting personal hygiene. If your loved one can’t remember the last time they bathed, it may be time to consider additional assistance.
8. Withdrawal from work or social activities
   Someone may remove themselves from hobbies, social engagements or work projects they previously enjoyed.
9. Changes in mood and personality
   Dementia can cause mood swings, confusion, depression or fearfulness, especially in new or unfamiliar settings.
10. Difficulty completing familiar tasks
    Having trouble driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules of a favorite game are potential red flags.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If your loved one is experiencing one or more of these signs of dementia, it’s important to schedule a doctor’s appointment for a proper diagnosis. Early detection helps rule out other conditions and allows you to start planning for care. Memory care communities can provide specialized support designed to meet the unique needs of those living with dementia.

Montereau’s Abbey Memory Support neighborhood features a highly trained and certified team of professionals who employ specialized and individualized therapeutic programming. In Tulsa’s premier senior living setting, each resident is respected and valued, as our team fosters more positive daily experiences. If you’re not sure when to consider memory care, read this blog post to help guide your decision. If you still have questions or want to learn more about Montereau, contact us today.