If you’re referring to the headline “10 Early Signs of Dementia You Should Never Ignore,” it highlights symptoms that can be worth discussing with a healthcare professional. However, having one of these signs does not automatically mean someone has dementia—many can also be caused by stress, depression, sleep problems, medication effects, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, or other medical conditions.
Possible early warning signs of dementia can include:
- Memory problems that disrupt daily life
- Repeatedly asking the same questions or forgetting recent conversations.
- Difficulty managing familiar tasks
- Trouble following a familiar recipe, paying bills, or using everyday devices.
- Problems with planning or problem-solving
- Increased difficulty organizing tasks or making decisions.
- Confusion about time or place
- Losing track of dates, seasons, or becoming lost in familiar locations.
- Trouble with words or conversations
- Difficulty finding the right words, following discussions, or naming familiar objects.
- Misplacing items in unusual places
- Putting things in places where they don’t belong and being unable to retrace steps.
- Changes in judgment or decision-making
- New problems with finances, safety, or recognizing risks.
- Withdrawal from hobbies or social activities
- Losing interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.
- Changes in mood, personality, or behavior
- Increased anxiety, irritability, suspicion, or unusual emotional changes.
- Difficulty with visual or spatial skills
- Problems judging distances, navigating spaces, or recognizing objects.
A key concern is a noticeable change from a person’s previous abilities that gradually worsens over time. If memory or thinking changes are affecting independence, it’s a good idea to arrange a medical evaluation, because some causes of cognitive changes are treatable.
