Recognizing the Early Signs of Dementia

Anthem Memory Care communities provide person-centered care services that enhance meaning and purpose for residents living with dementia.

Dementia is a broad term for any symptoms affecting cognitive function. While the causes and types of dementia can vary, the symptoms can be progressive and degenerative, causing impaired memory, changes in behavior, diminished judgment, and comprehension challenges.

While there is no cure for dementia, early detection is crucial for managing symptoms and providing appropriate care and support.

Here are the signs of early stage dementia:

Memory Loss: The most immediately recognizable and common sign of dementia is difficulty remembering recent events, conversations, or important information. People with dementia may frequently ask the same questions, forget appointments or tasks, and struggle with recalling names and faces.
Problems with Language: Dementia can affect language abilities. People with early stage dementia often have difficulty understanding complex sentences or following conversations. Struggling to remember common phrases, unknowingly repeating the same sentences, making uncharacteristic grammatical errors, or being unable to use the right words when speaking or writing are very common.
Swings in Mood and Behavior: Mood and behavior fluctuations—sometimes severe—are often an indication of early stage dementia. Individuals can become irritable, confused, anxious, or agitated. They may also experience mood swings, lack empathy, or exhibit inappropriate behavior.
Impaired Judgment and decision-making: Dementia can impair judgment and decision-making abilities. Individuals might have difficulty comprehending risks, making sound financial decisions, or choosing appropriate clothing. They may also struggle with problem-solving and reasoning tasks.
Trouble with Coordination: Dementia can affect motor skills and coordination, causing difficulty with balance, walking, or performing fine motor skills. A person might drop objects more frequently, struggle with buttoning clothes, or have trouble with activities such as writing or handling utensils.
Changes in Vision: Dementia can cause changes in vision and perception. Individuals often have difficulty recognizing objects, judging distances, or reading. They may also experience difficulty seeing in low light or with colors.
Difficulty with Planning and Organizing: Dementia can erode a person’s ability to prioritize and plan tasks, manage their time, or follow through on obligations. A generally prompt person might start arriving late to appointments or forget appointments entirely. They may also struggle with decision-making and problem-solving tasks.
Apathy and Withdrawal: Dementia can affect motivation and interest in activities. Individuals may become withdrawn, lose interest in hobbies or social events, and show a lack of enthusiasm. Sleep disruptions and loss of appetite are also common.
Forgetfulness of Familiar Tasks: Dementia can make it difficult for individuals to remember common tasks or activities. Performing once-routine tasks—cooking, paying bills, or driving—might be challenging.
Changes in Personality: Dementia can cause changes in personality and affect an individual's sense of self. Individuals may become more anxious or suspicious, experience mood swings, or exhibit uncharacteristic behavior.

These symptoms do not definitively indicate dementia. However, if they persist or worsen over time, it is advisable to consult a physician for a thorough evaluation and to rule out any other potential causes.

Please note that these early indications of dementia may vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. If you notice any of the above signs in yourself or a loved one, seek medical attention. Early diagnosis is crucial for intervention and management of the disorder.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Early Signs of Dementia

Is Age-Related Memory Loss One of the Signs of Early Dementia?

Age-related memory loss and dementia are two conditions that are often confused, but they have distinct differences.

Age-related memory loss is primarily caused by a decline in neural connections in the brain. As we age, our brains change, including a decrease in the number of neurons (the nerve cells that transmit chemical and electrochemical signals) and synapses (the connection between the neurons). This natural decline can lead to difficulty retaining new information and recalling past events, though certain forms of age-related memory loss can be reversed.

While age-related memory loss is a natural part of aging, dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that requires ongoing care and support. Recognizing the symptoms and pursuing targeted medical attention is essential for determining the underlying cause and accessing effective treatment.

What Are the Early Signs of Dementia in Women?

While women are statistically more likely to experience dementia than men, the signs of early stage dementia remain similar for both men and women. However, certain conditions are thought to put women at a higher risk of dementia. These conditions include depression, having undergone hysterectomy, and having experienced pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia.

Early signs of dementia in men and women include the following:

Lapses in memory or memory loss
Significant emotional changes, such as increased irritability.
Depression-related social withdrawal.
Coordination difficulties.
Excessive sleeping during daytime hours.

How is Dementia Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of dementia involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. An evaluation might include reviewing your medical history, physical examination, cognitive assessment, and laboratory tests to eliminate other possible concerns.

Can I Prevent Dementia?

While there is no cure for dementia, lifestyle changes can decrease your risk of developing it. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing your health conditions, and staying mentally active can optimize your brain health and reduce dementia risk.

Protect, Engage, & Love

Anthem Memory Care's Pathways of Purpose pledge is a commitment to providing individualized care and support for individuals experiencing dementia. Our approach is based on the belief that every resident deserves purpose, dignity, and joy at all stages of life.

The Pathways of Purpose program focuses on creating a safe, nurturing environment that promotes physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. We emphasize meaningful engagement, social interaction, and personalized care through plans tailored to each resident's unique needs, identity, and preferences.