Having dementia doesn’t mean suddenly waking up with memory loss and confusion. Cognitive function degrades over a long time, with many symptoms being easy to miss. However, an early diagnosis can slow the progress of the condition and allow patients to start treatment as soon as possible.
Here are seven early signs of dementia that are worth looking out for, either in yourself or in someone you love, so you have the time to find the right care home in Oxfordshire for their needs.
1) Difficulty concentrating
Most people associate dementia with memory loss, but the first thing others might notice are a difficulty concentrating and seemingly forgetting things that recently happened. They might repeat themselves frequently, forget important dates, stop in the middle of a conversation, and increasingly rely on reminder notes and to do lists.
It is also common to misplace or lose things, and they may even accuse others of stealing from them.
2) Problems with language
As part of their short-term memory loss, people with early signs of dementia might find they begin to struggle with language. This can include difficulties with finding the words they are thinking of, following conversations, or knowing what to say in response.
Subsequently, they may withdraw from social events or stop their hobbies, as they find it hard to maintain conversations with people. The more they isolate themselves, however, the worse their challenges with communication will become.
3) Issues with problem-solving
Their ability to problem-solve may start to decline, which can make every day tasks more difficult. For instance, they might find it hard to follow recipes, keep to the rules of a game, keep track of household bills, or write a shopping list.
Their decision-making can also suffer, which can often lead to paying less attention to their personal hygiene, spending more than they can afford, or buying things they do not need.
4) Getting lost
If yourself or your loved one has found themselves in a familiar location without knowing how to get home, this could be an indication of dementia. Not recognising where you are, having a lack of orientation, and not recalling cues, such as landmarks, are common with some forms of dementia.
5) Lack of visual perception
Visual perception and spatial awareness are also likely to decline. This means they can find it harder to judge distances or obstacles; therefore, they may bump into things or trip up more often. Repeated falls, problems with balance, and being unable to determine contrast or colour are common signs of dementia.
Those who drive may find it more difficult to judge their speed, navigate parking, and might get too close to other vehicles.
6) Changes in behaviour
One of the hardest symptoms of dementia for loved ones to deal with is the change in personality. This is especially true before a diagnosis when nobody understands why their friend or relative has started to act differently.
They often become more irritable; they might be more impulsive and reckless; they may say inappropriate things without thinking; and they can become suspicious about their loved ones’ intentions. For instance, they might resist their family’s or friends’ concerns, and be rude and aggressive towards them when bringing up the topic of dementia.
7) Become depressed
Another sign to look out for if you are worried about yourself or a loved one is whether their mood has started to change. It is common for people with early signs of dementia to feel depressed and anxious. This could be because it is hard to come to terms with their cognitive changes, and they may be frightened, sad and angry about it.
However, low mood can also be indicators of dementia, so if someone presents with symptoms of depression or anxiety, it is worth looking out for other signs as well. | 
Powered by