5 Warning Signs That Indicate You Are At Higher Risk Of Developing Dementia

Dementia is a collective term for conditions that are characterized by the weakening of memory, problem-solving skills, and language. It can also impair the ability of an individual to perform routine and daily activities. One of the most common causes of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease.

The early warning symptoms that indicate the development of dementia are very subtle and may not be noticed immediately. The early symptoms would also vary and depend on the type of dementia. It may also differ from one person to the next. There are even times when some fail to recognize specific behaviors that already tell them something is definitely wrong. For many people, they wrongly assume that these behaviors are just products of old age. Five signs may indicate the onset of dementia. What are these?

Loss of Memory

While it may be normal to forget things and remember them at a later time, the frequency of these memory lapses should trigger a warning bell. One of the earliest signs of dementia is forgetting things more often and in some cases, not remembering them at all.

Difficulty Performing Routine Tasks

Another early symptom of dementia is finding difficulty in doing routine and everyday tasks. During this stage, you may easily get distracted and forget to do a simple undertaking taking along your notes to a meeting or cooking. You may also find difficulty in following basic procedures due to the development of the disease.

Speech Problems

Although it may be normal for anyone to sometimes encounter hardship in speaking the right word, a person with dementia may forget entirely even simple words. At times, he or she might substitute it for inappropriate words, making their sentences so hard to comprehend. They may also have difficulty in understanding what others are trying to tell them.

Confusion or Disorientation

Persons with dementia may have trouble finding their way or identifying a familiar place. They may also start getting confused about their exact location. In some instances, their location may make them think they are back in the past.

Identifying Dementia

The best way to determine whether or not you are already developing dementia is by talking to your GP and undergoing some tests. You can also go to a Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service clinic and get a diagnosis at an early time.

A correct and proper diagnosis of dementia can help the doctor decide on a treatment and support plan. While there may be no cure for dementia at this time, there are treatment methods that may temporarily alleviate its symptoms