Dementia symptoms can vary depending on the type of dementia and the individual. However, there are some common early symptoms that may appear before a diagnosis of dementia. Here are the 10 warning signs of dementia:
- Memory changes that affect day-to-day abilities
- Difficulty doing familiar tasks
- Changes in language and communication
- Disorientation in time and space
- Poor or decreased judgment
- Problems with abstract thinking
- Misplacing things
- Changes in mood and behavior
- Changes in personality
- Loss of initiative
Memory loss is one of the most common symptoms of dementia, especially in the early stages. Other common symptoms include problems communicating or finding words, trouble with visual and spatial abilities, such as getting lost while driving, trouble with reasoning or problem-solving, trouble performing complex tasks, and trouble with planning and organizing. In addition, individuals living with dementia may experience mood and personality changes, such as becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They may also put things in unusual places, lose things, and be unable to retrace their steps to find them again. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory difficulties or other changes in thinking skills, it is important to see a doctor soon to determine the cause.
