6 Symptoms Of Dementia That Often Go Unnoticed

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Dementia is a debilitating condition that can rob people of their memories, their ability to think clearly, and eventually, their very lives. It is estimated that there are currently over 47 million people living with dementia worldwide, and this number is expected to rise to over 75 million by 2030. While dementia is most commonly associated with the elderly, it can affect people of any age.

One of the most difficult aspects of dealing with dementia is that its symptoms can often go unnoticed until the disease has progressed significantly. This is why it’s so important to be aware of the early signs of dementia and to seek medical help if you or a loved one are exhibiting any of them.

Memory problems

One of the first signs that something may be wrong is when friends or family start to notice that you’re having trouble remembering things. A hallmark symptom of Alzheimer’s disease, memory problems can often be one of the first and most noticeable signs of dementia. This can be anything from forgetting recent events to forgetting people’s names or your own history.  People with dementia may also have trouble retaining new information or struggle to recall familiar words or names. If you or a loved one are experiencing persistent memory problems, it’s important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

Changes in mood and behavior

Dementia is an umbrella term for a decline in cognitive function due to disease or injury. This can include difficulties with memory, language, problem-solving, and decision-making.

One of the earliest signs of dementia is changes in mood and behavior. These changes can be subtle and easy to miss, but they can have a big impact on how someone functions day-to-day. This can include becoming withdrawn or depressed, as well as experiencing sudden outbursts of anger or aggression. If you notice any changes in your loved one’s mood or behavior, it’s important to seek medical help.

Music has been shown to be beneficial for people with dementia. It can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote social interaction. It’s no wonder why the use of music in dementia care is gaining more popularity and attention in the medical and scientific community. Music therapy is even included in apps for the use of dementia patients. There are increasing reports of positive effects on mood, brain plasticity, and quality of life. It can also provide a sense of structure and routine, which can be helpful for people who are struggling to remember things.

If you notice changes in mood or behavior in yourself or someone you know, it’s important to talk to a doctor. Dementia is a progressive disease, so early diagnosis and treatment are essential. There are many resources available to help people live well with dementia, and music can be a big part of that.

Problems with executive function

This is one of the earliest symptoms of dementia, and it’s often one of the most underrated. The term executive function refers to a person’s ability to plan, organize, and complete tasks. This can be anything from making a grocery list to managing finances.

It is common for those in the early stage of dementia to experience difficulties with planning or problem-solving. This can range from simple tasks, such as working out how to use the microwave, to more complex issues like budgeting or paying bills. If your loved one is struggling with everyday tasks, it’s a good idea to get them assessed by a doctor.

As dementia progresses, those affected may find it hard to complete familiar tasks. This can include everyday activities like getting dressed or brushing teeth. If your loved one is starting to struggle with activities they’ve always been able to do, it’s important to seek medical help.

If you notice that your loved one is having trouble with these types of tasks, it’s important to have a conversation about it. Dementia can be a very isolating disease, and many people feel embarrassed or ashamed about their declining abilities. However, it’s important to remember that dementia is not a reflection of intelligence or worthiness – it’s simply an unfortunate side effect of the disease.

Confusion and disorientation

One of the most common symptoms of dementia is confusion and disorientation.  People with dementia often have trouble orienting themselves in time and space. This can manifest in a number of ways, from getting lost in familiar places to having trouble following conversations or forgetting how to get home.

This symptom often goes unnoticed because it can be easily chalked up to “senior moments” or normal age-related memory problems. However, if you notice that your loved one is having more and more difficulty with orientation, it’s important to seek professional help.

Changes in communication

One of the first signs of dementia is changes in communication. This can manifest in many ways, but some common examples include forgetting familiar words, having trouble following conversations, or speaking unusually slowly. Another manifestation could be struggling to find the right words when trying to speak.

If you notice these sorts of changes in a loved one, it’s important to bring them up with a doctor. Dementia is a progressive disease, which means that symptoms will only get worse over time. So getting an early diagnosis is crucial in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

Changes in vision

One of the most tragic things about dementia is that it often goes unnoticed until it is too late. Many people dismiss the early symptoms as simply a part of aging, when in fact they could be indicative of a much more serious condition.

One symptom of dementia that is often overlooked is changes in vision. This can manifest itself in a number of ways, including trouble reading, difficulty recognizing faces, or even complete blindness. They may also experience hallucinations, which are false or distorted perceptions of reality.

If you or a loved one are experiencing any changes in vision, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of dementia can help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.

If you or a loved one are exhibiting any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help. Early diagnosis and treatment of dementia can slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for those affected.