5 Early signs of dementia – What to look out for

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Dementia is a group of symptoms that affect cognitive functions like memory, thinking and behaviour. Identifying early signs can be crucial for obtaining the right diagnosis and support in time. Here are five early signs of dementia to be aware of.

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Dementia Symptoms – What to Look For

Dementia symptoms differ from the normal forgetfulness that comes with ageing. It is not about occasionally forgetting where you put your keys – it is about changes that disrupt daily life, worsen gradually and cannot be explained by stress or tiredness.

Symptoms of dementia can manifest as memory problems, but also as changed behaviour, difficulty planning or problems with language and communication.

The 5 Early Signs of Dementia

1. Memory loss affecting daily life

Memory issues are often one of the first signs of dementia. This goes beyond misplacing keys – it involves forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or repeatedly asking the same questions. When memory loss begins to interfere with daily tasks, it is a potential warning sign.

2. Difficulty planning or solving problems

People in the early stages of dementia may struggle with following instructions or managing complex tasks, such as paying bills or preparing a meal using a recipe. They might also have trouble thinking ahead or organising everyday activities.

3. Confusion about time and place

Forgetting the date or becoming disoriented in familiar surroundings is another common indicator. Someone with dementia might lose track of time or events and have difficulty understanding things that are not happening immediately. This disorientation can lead to anxiety and confusion.

4. Changes in mood and personality

Unexplained mood swings, irritability or depression can be early signs of dementia. Some individuals may also become more withdrawn, lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed, or exhibit anxiety or suspicion toward others.

5. Difficulty finding words or following conversations

Language difficulties are common in the early stages of dementia. This could mean frequently forgetting words, struggling to follow a conversation, or using incorrect words in sentences. These challenges may lead to avoiding social interactions.

The Difference Between Normal Forgetfulness and Dementia Symptoms

Different Types of Dementia

Dementia is not one disease but an umbrella term for several conditions:

• Alzheimer’s disease – the most common form, around 60–70% of all cases
• Vascular dementia – caused by damage to the brain’s blood vessels
• Lewy body dementia – with symptoms resembling both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
• Frontotemporal dementia – often affects younger people and impacts behaviour and personality

When Should You Seek Help?

Contact a doctor if you or someone close to you shows several of these symptoms over a prolonged period. Many conditions can mimic dementia, and early diagnosis can lead to better treatment options and support.

Sensorem’s Personal Alarm with GPS Positioning, Medication Reminder and Automatic Fall Detection

Sensorem’s personal alarm is an example of a technical aid specially developed for people with dementia. The alarm works outdoors and has built-in GPS positioning so that relatives can see the user’s location on a map in the Sensorem app. Relatives are automatically called by the alarm (two-way communication) if the user leaves a predetermined geographical area. The alarm also has a medication reminder and can alert automatically in the event of a fall with the built-in fall sensor.