How to Spot Dementia - Signs and Symptoms to Notice
We all experience a temporary lapse of memory at times and forget why we came into a room, forget where we put our glasses, or even forget a dear friend's name for an instant. How does one know if these are a normal part of aging, or if concern is warranted?
The signs of dementia can vary greatly and are, at times, common to all of us. The difference is the impact they have on one’s life.
Examples include:
• Short-term memory challenges
• Repeating questions or comments, retelling stories
• Keeping track of one's phone, purse, or wallet
• Paying bills and tracking finances
• Problems with household and personal upkeep
• Planning and preparing meals
• Meeting obligations and appointments
• Traveling out of the one's local area
• Impulsivity and personality changes
Although many people will experience the above issues occasionally as a normal part of our busy lives, it is concerning when they begin to impact one's life in a harmful way, specifically financial and physical safety.
Many dementia conditions are progressive, meaning that the symptoms start out slowly and gradually get worse over time, so that is what you monitor. If you or someone you know is experiencing consistent or increasing memory difficulties or other changes in thinking skills, don't ignore them.
Meet with your medical provider as soon as possible to determine the cause. Professional evaluation may detect a treatable condition.
If one's symptoms do suggest dementia, early diagnosis allows a person to get the maximum benefit from available treatments and provide the opportunity to participate in clinical trials or research studies. It also provides time to plan for the future.
Discuss your concerns with your medical provider
Resources on signs and symptoms of dementia and medical follow-up for diagnosis include the following:
