Experts have warned that some common signs of dementia could be “confused” with normal ageing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help.
Dementia is marked by a gradual deterioration in cognitive function, resulting in issues including memory impairment, alterations in behaviour, and problems with mobility. Identifying the early warning signs of dementia is crucial for ensuring those affected receive appropriate care and assistance.
However, differentiating these indicators from the natural ageing process can prove difficult. Research carried out by the Alzheimer’s Society revealed a worrying pattern. Just one third of individuals report dementia symptoms within the initial month of observing them, whether in themselves or a loved one.
The research, which collected data from 1,100 respondents, indicates that confusion about whether the signs witnessed are attributable to dementia or merely typical age-related decline causes many to stay quiet.
“One in three people (33%) who notice symptoms of dementia in themselves or a loved one keep their fears to themselves for over a month,” the charity stated. Additionally, the research found that only 15% of people take immediate action when they detect possible dementia indicators, whilst 11% admitted they had not shared their concerns whatsoever, despite recognising early symptoms.
This reluctance to raise concerns can postpone accessing help, with 23% delaying for over six months before approaching a medical professional. Initial indicators of dementia, such as struggling to keep up with discussions, problems with focus, and lapses in memory, are frequently written off as typical age-related changes, perhaps put down to deteriorating hearing or simple absent-mindedness.
Yet, this misconception might mask a far more serious condition – a recent survey revealed that 16 per cent of respondents confessed they are deliberately “avoiding” pursuing a diagnosis due to fears about how it might impact their personal connections. Furthermore, the research exposed that 44 % are anxious about being patronised by carers or relatives, who may start to “talk down” to them.
Bearing this in mind, seven potential early warning signs of dementia include:
- Difficulty following a conversation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Hearing loss
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings
- Difficulty moving
Kate Lee, the CEO of Alzheimer’s Society, is urging people to confront the challenge directly. She said: “We can’t continue to avoid the ‘d’ word – we need to face dementia head on.”
She advised that anyone noticing possible warning signs should utilise their checklist and consult their doctor. She said: “As soon as you realise something is not right, come to Alzheimer’s Society – you can use our symptoms checklist to help have that all-important first chat with your GP.”
The charity has outlined that indicators of Alzheimer’s and dementia could include:
- Poor judgment and decision-making
- Inability to manage a budget
- Losing track of the date or the season
- Difficulty engaging in conversation
- Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps to locate them
On the other hand, some common age-related changes might include:
- Occasionally making a poor decision
- Missing a monthly payment
- Temporarily forgetting the day but recalling it later
- Sometimes struggling to find the right word
- Misplacing items from time to time
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
