Recognizing Dementia Symptoms

What to look for

A dementia diagnosis typically involves a decline in at least two core mental functions, such as memory, reasoning, language, or focus. Keep an eye out for these specific signs that may suggest your loved one is struggling:

• Short-Term Memory Loss: They may easily recall events from decades ago but struggle to remember what they had for breakfast or who visited them yesterday. This often leads to repeating stories or questions in a single conversation.

• Difficulty with Communication: Notice if they pause frequently while speaking, as if searching for the right word. Conversations may become disjointed or take longer to complete as they struggle to articulate their thoughts.

• Changes in Mood or Personality: Apathy is a common sign; they may lose interest in hobbies, friends, or family they once loved. They might also experience uncharacteristic mood swings, anxiety, or a shift in personality.

• Confusion and Disorientation: They may feel lost in familiar places or fail to recognize the faces of friends or family. This confusion can be frightening for them and may lead to an underlying sense of fear.

• Trouble with Everyday Tasks: They may struggle with tasks that once came easily, such as following a recipe, managing finances, or driving to a familiar location.

• Problems with Comprehension: They may have a hard time following the plot of a movie or a TV show, or lose the thread of a conversation.