Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It is not a normal part of aging, but it is more common in older adults. The most well-known form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are many other types.
Scientists and doctors have identified certain early warning signs that can help people recognize dementia sooner, which is important because early diagnosis allows for better planning, support, and treatment options.
The first sign is memory loss that disrupts daily life. Everyone forgets things sometimes, like where they put their keys, but people with dementia may forget important dates, repeat questions often, or rely more and more on notes or family members to remember things they used to handle on their own.
The second sign is trouble with planning or solving problems. This could look like struggling to follow a recipe they’ve used for years, or having difficulty keeping track of bills and numbers. Research shows that people in early stages of dementia may find it harder to think logically or follow steps in a process.
The third sign is difficulty completing familiar tasks. A person might forget how to get to a familiar location, how to play a favorite game, or how to use the microwave. This is more than occasional distraction—it’s a change in the ability to do everyday things.
The fourth warning sign is confusion with time or place. People with dementia may lose track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time. They might forget where they are or how they got there. Studies show that damage to certain parts of the brain can make it harder for people with dementia to understand time and their surroundings.
The fifth sign is trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. This may show up as difficulty reading, judging distance, or telling colors apart, which can affect driving or walking safely. Research using brain scans has found that these issues are linked to changes in the parts of the brain that process visual information.
The sixth warning sign is problems with speaking or writing. A person might struggle to find the right words, call things by the wrong name, or repeat themselves. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and not know how to continue. This can make social situations difficult and frustrating.
The seventh sign is misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. People with dementia may put things in unusual places, like putting a wallet in the freezer. They may accuse others of stealing because they can’t remember where they put something. This behavior becomes more frequent over time.
The eighth warning sign is poor judgment or decision-making. This could include giving large amounts of money to strangers or neglecting grooming and cleanliness. Research shows that dementia can affect the brain’s ability to assess risk and make sound choices.
The ninth sign is withdrawing from work or social activities. A person might start to avoid hobbies, work projects, or social gatherings because they feel confused or embarrassed. Scientists have found that this withdrawal can be both a symptom of the brain changes caused by dementia and a response to the emotional effects of the condition.
The tenth and final warning sign is changes in mood or personality. People with dementia may become easily upset, suspicious, confused, or anxious. They might show less interest in people or things they used to care about. These changes are not just emotional—they are tied to changes in the brain itself.
While having one or two of these symptoms doesn’t mean someone has dementia, noticing several of them, especially if they worsen over time, is a reason to talk to a doctor. Early evaluation can help rule out other causes and start the right care.
Understanding these signs can help families spot problems early and support their loved ones with knowledge and compassion.
If you care about brain health, please read studies about how the Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and Omega-3 fats and carotenoid supplements could improve memory.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies about antioxidants that could help reduce dementia risk, and higher magnesium intake could help benefit brain health.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
