Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and can cause a range of symptoms. The early signs of dementia can be very subtle and vague, and may not be immediately obvious. Although the early signs of dementia vary, there are some common early symptoms that may appear some time before a diagnosis of dementia. These include:

• Memory problems: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates or events, asking the same questions over and over, and increasingly needing to rely on memory aids or family members for things they used to handle on their own.

• Difficulty with tasks: Difficulty performing familiar tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping, or difficulty with planning and organizing.

• Confusion: Increasing confusion, reduced concentration, and problems with reasoning or problem-solving.

• Personality or behavior changes: Mood and personality changes, becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted, apathy, withdrawal, or depression.

• Disorientation: Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time, forgetting where they are or how they got there.

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be a normal part of the aging process, but if they are persistent and interfere with daily life, it is important to consult a doctor for a complete assessment.