Dementia is a mental decline that affects an individual’s ability to remember, think, communicate, and perform daily activities. It can be difficult to identify early on, and many of its symptoms can be caused by other health conditions. In this article, we will explore the six early signs of dementia that you should never ignore.
Difficulty Organizing and Planning Things
One of the early signs of dementia is difficulty organizing and planning things. This can manifest as difficulty keeping track of appointments, trouble remembering important dates, or losing track of finances. It is important to note that occasional forgetfulness is normal and does not necessarily indicate dementia. However, if you notice a pattern of forgetfulness and disorganization, it may be time to talk to a healthcare professional.
Personality Changes
Dementia can cause changes in an individual’s personality, which can be distressing for loved ones. Common personality changes include increased agitation, anxiety, and confusion. It is important to remember that personality changes can be caused by other health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and stress. If you or a loved one is experiencing personality changes, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes.
Constipation
Constipation is not a symptom that most people associate with dementia, but it is actually an early warning sign. Research has found that individuals with dementia have a higher incidence of constipation than those without the condition. This is because the gut is connected to the brain through the gut-brain axis, and gut health can impact brain health. If you or a loved one is experiencing constipation along with other symptoms on this list, it may be time to talk to a healthcare provider.
Sensory Dysfunction
Sensory dysfunction can manifest as issues with smell, taste, hearing, eyesight, or appetite. While occasional issues with sensory function are normal, if you or a loved one is experiencing persistent issues, it may be time to talk to a healthcare provider. Sensory dysfunction can be caused by a variety of health conditions, and it is important to rule out other potential causes before assuming it is due to dementia.
Language Problems
Individuals with dementia may experience difficulty finding words, repeating themselves, or mixing up their words. This is because dementia affects the hippocampus, a part of the brain responsible for language function. If you or a loved one is experiencing language problems, it may be time to talk to a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes.
Inability to Navigate Well in New Places
The inability to navigate well in new places is another early warning sign of dementia. This is because dementia can cause dysfunction in the part of the brain responsible for spatial orientation. If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty navigating new places, it may be time to talk to a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Dementia is a serious health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it can be difficult to identify early on, there are six warning signs that you should never ignore. These signs include difficulty organizing and planning things, personality changes, constipation, sensory dysfunction, language problems, and the inability to navigate well in new places. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes and get the appropriate care.