Contents
Could It Be Dementia? Recognizing Key Symptoms Early
Published: Jan 28, 2024
Dementia symptoms can be sneaky, often mistaken for normal aging. Learn how to identify the early signs that shouldn't be ignored.
Common Symptoms of Dementia
Memory loss is the most recognized symptom of dementia, but it's not the only one. Patients may struggle with completing familiar tasks, understanding visual images, or following conversations. Behavioral changes, such as mood swings or withdrawal from social activities, are also common and often noticed by family members.
Dementia vs. Normal Aging
While some forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, dementia symptoms are more severe and disruptive. Normal aging might involve occasional memory lapses, but dementia affects daily life and independence. Recognizing the difference is crucial for getting timely help and support.
The Role of Family and Caregivers
Family members and caregivers play a vital role in identifying dementia symptoms. Often, they notice changes in behavior or cognitive abilities before the individual does. Their observations and reports can lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention, improving outcomes for those affected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Memory loss, especially forgetting recent events, is often the first sign.
Dementia is more severe, impacting daily life, unlike normal aging forgetfulness.
Yes, changes in mood or behavior can be early signs of dementia.
Often, family members observe symptoms before the individual does.
The Bottom Line
Identifying dementia symptoms early can lead to more effective management and support.
References
- Carr DB, Gray S, Baty J, Morris JC. The value of informant versus individual's complaints of memory impairment in early dementia. Neurology 2000; 55:1724.
- Wang PN, Wang SJ, Fuh JL, et al. Subjective memory complaint in relation to cognitive performance and depression: a longitudinal study of a rural Chinese population. J Am Geriatr Soc 2000; 48:295.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?