We all forget things from time to time. Perhaps you walk into a room and forget why you went there, misplace your keys or struggle to remember someone's name. These things can happen to anyone and do not necessarily mean there is a problem.
If changes in memory, thinking, communication or behaviour become more noticeable or start to affect everyday life, it may be worth having a chat with your GP. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and knowing the early signs of dementia can help you recognise when it may be time to seek advice and support.
What are the early signs of dementia?
There is no single set of symptoms that everyone with dementia will experience. Signs can vary depending on the person and the type of dementia they have.
Some changes you may notice include:
1. Memory loss that affects everyday life
Occasional forgetfulness is normal. More persistent memory loss may include forgetting recent conversations, repeating questions, or regularly losing or misplacing belongings.
2. Difficulty with everyday tasks, planning or problem-solving
Someone may struggle with familiar tasks such as following a recipe, managing finances, using appliances, organising shopping or completing everyday routines.
3. Becoming confused about time or place
Regularly losing track of the date, becoming unsure where they are or getting lost in familiar places can be a possible warning sign of dementia.
4. Changes in communication
Someone may regularly lose their train of thought, repeat themselves or struggle to find the right words.
5. Difficulty judging distances or recognising things
Some types of dementia can affect vision and spatial awareness, making it harder to judge distances, navigate familiar spaces or recognise objects.
6. Changes in judgement or behaviour
A noticeable change may include unusual decisions about money, becoming more vulnerable to scams or behaving differently from usual.
7. Becoming less interested in usual activities
Someone may gradually lose interest in hobbies, social activities or things they have always enjoyed, particularly alongside other changes.
8. Changes in mood or personality
Someone may become more anxious, frustrated, withdrawn, suspicious or less confident than usual.
When should you seek help?
If you are worried about changes in yourself or someone close to you, speaking to a GP is a good place to start. Having some dementia symptoms does not necessarily mean someone has dementia, as memory and thinking can be affected by many things.
It can help to note what changes you have noticed, when they started and how they affect everyday life. Taking someone who knows the person well to the appointment can also be helpful.
Seeking advice early can help you understand the possible causes and explore any support that may be needed. If dementia is diagnosed, simple changes such as familiar routines, reminders and support with everyday tasks can help people stay independent for longer.
The important thing is not to ignore ongoing changes simply because they seem like a normal part of getting older.
Supporting someone with dementia at home
For many people, home is a place of comfort, familiarity and reassurance. Staying in familiar surroundings can help someone living with dementia maintain their routines and connections with the people and community around them.
As needs change, care at home can provide extra support while helping someone remain independent in the place they know and love. This could include help with personal care, meals, medication, mobility, household tasks or simply having someone there for companionship.
Good dementia care is about supporting what a person can still do for themselves, while providing a helping hand when it is needed.
How Bluebird Care Bournemouth and Poole can help!
If you or someone close to you is living with dementia, it is natural to have questions about what support might be right for you.
Bluebird Care Bournemouth and Poole provides personalised care at home across Bournemouth and Poole, shaped around each person's needs, preferences and familiar routines.
Whether you need occasional support or more regular care, we are here to listen, answer your questions and help you explore the options available.
To find out more about our Dementia Care, contact us on 01202 283777 or bournemouth-poole@bluebirdcare.co.uk, or visit our contact page.
Further information
For more information about dementia and available support, you can also visit:
This article is intended for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are concerned about changes in memory, thinking, communication or behaviour, speak to a GP or another appropriate healthcare professional.