7 symptoms of dementia that go unnoticed, from forgetfulness to mood swings

Early signs of dementia can be subtle and are often attributed to aging, stress or being overtired. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

• Early dementia signs include memory loss, mood changes, and poor judgment
• Early detection and medical advice can slow progression and improve outcomes
• Dementia affects thinking, behavior, and daily activities, not just memory

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Early warning signs of dementia are commonly dismissed as stress or a late-life standard. Symptoms of memory loss and other cognitive problems may be evident for years before a diagnosis. Early identification of these warning signs and seeking medical advice will slow the progression and significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Dementia is often mistaken as an ailment that solely the old suffer from and it starts with a person forgetting things on a grand scale. The truth is, early signs of dementia can be subtle and are often attributed to aging, stress or being overtired. Recognizing dementias when they are still relatively early in their development permits medical intervention, lifestyle adaptations and forward planning that can significantly slow down the progression of the illness and enhance quality of life.

A lot of early-warning signals are not so disruptive to our daily functioning at first that we can no longer ignore them. Memory lapses, mood swings or problems with attentiveness can sound benign. But if those symptoms are persistent or getting worse, they may be a sign of underlying cognitive decline. These early warning signs can help liberate both the person and their family to consult a doctor sooner rather than later.

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Dr Nishant Mehta, Consultant Neurologist at Felix Global says that “Recognising early whispers can modify the whole trajectory of the disease” and suggests some of the early warning signs.

Forgetfulness or Losing things from Time to Time

Forgetfulness or losing things from time to time is normal. But if you keep losing track of recent conversations, appointments or finding that you’ve asked the same questions multiple times, it could be early dementia. “If memory lapses start failing someone in their daily life, now it’s no longer just ageing — it needs to be evaluated,” emphasises Dr Mehta.

Difficulty Concentrating or Planning

Difficulty with familiar recipes, managing money or following plans also is an early sign. These alterations are commonly misinterpreted as brain fatigue or job stress.

Changes in Mood and Personality

Early dementia can manifest as growing irritability, anxiety and depression or changes in personality. The individual may become more isolated or respond strangely to the environment. These changes are often noted by friends and family long before the person recognises them themselves.

Language and Communication Problems

Fumbling or struggling with the right words, frequently pausing in conversation or repeating what is said may be early signs. They may have difficulty following conversations or forget what they were saying.

Poor Judgment and Decision-Making

Potential clues to impaired judgment may include atypical financial decision making, ignoring their own personal hygiene or engaging in socially embarrassing conduct. These alterations are very mild at first, but they get worse.

Disorientation and Confusion

Losing one’s way in familiar surroundings, forgetting whether it is date A or B, or not understanding time are warning signals that are often neglected until they are at an advanced stage.

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Loss of Interest in Hobbies

People in early stages of dementia may lose interest in hobbies, social activities or routines they used to enjoy and are frequently put down to low mood or burn out.

“The largest mistake families can make is waiting for memory loss alone. Dementia isn’t just about memory loss; it also affects thinking, behaviour and identity,” says the doctor.

FAQs on dementia:

1. What is dementia?

Dementia is a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform daily activities.

2. What are the early signs of dementia?

Memory loss, difficulty finding words, confusion, poor judgment, and changes in mood or personality.

3. Is dementia a normal part of ageing?

No, dementia is not a normal part of ageing, though risk increases with age.

4. What causes dementia?

Common causes include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and brain injuries.

5. Can dementia be prevented or slowed?

Healthy lifestyle choices like mental stimulation, exercise, social engagement, and heart health management may reduce risk or slow progression.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.