Several early signs of Dementia that are easily mistaken as signs of ageing
The Alzheimer’s Society has revealed that early signs of dementia are often confused for old age, but there are key differences to keep an eye out for. Dementia is a term used for a range of neurological conditions that cause the loss of cognitive functioning, such as thinking, reasoning, and remembering, which often leads to behavioural and personality changes. Recognising the disease early is essential for ensuring the affected person gets the support and care they need. However, differentiating these symptoms from normal ageing can be difficult.
A survey led by the Alzheimer’s Society highlighted a concerning trend. Only a third of people report symptoms of dementia within the first month of noticing them, either in themselves or someone close. The survey, which gathered feedback from 1,100 participants, suggests that people often remain silent as they are unsure whether their symptoms were due to dementia or simply age-related changes.
The organisation reported that one in three people who notice symptoms of dementia in themselves or a loved one keep their fears to themselves for over a month. Additionally, the survey revealed that 15 percent of individuals act immediately upon spotting potential dementia signs, while 11 percent confessed to not discussing their worries at all, despite recognising initial symptoms. By not speaking up, the process of getting support is completely delayed, with 23 percent of people waiting for more than half a year before consulting a GP.
Early signs of dementia include having trouble following conversations, concentration difficulties, and forgetful moments. These symptoms are often dismissed as signs of ageing, attributed to hearing loss or mere forgetfulness. However, a recent poll showed that 16 percent of those surveyed admitted they were actively avoiding seeking a diagnosis due to concerns about its effects on their personal relationships with partners, friends, or family members.
The CEO of Alzheimer’s Society, Kate Lee, is urging people to acknowledge their symptoms. She emphasised the importance of facing dementia head-on and advised individuals who spot potential symptoms to use a checklist and talk to their GP. According to the charity, signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia can manifest as poor judgment and decision-making, inability to manage a budget, losing track of the date or the season, difficulty in conversation, and misplacing things.
In contrast, age-related changes may include making a bad decision occasionally, missing a monthly payment, forgetting the day but remembering it later, forgetting which word to use, and losing things from time to time. It is crucial for individuals to seek help and not delay the process of diagnosis and support.
Insights and Summary:
Recognising the early signs of dementia is crucial for ensuring timely support and care for affected individuals. Differentiating between signs of dementia and normal ageing can be challenging, leading to delays in seeking help and support. The Alzheimer’s Society emphasises the importance of acknowledging symptoms, using checklists, and consulting a GP for timely diagnosis and intervention. It is essential for individuals to overcome fears and concerns and address potential dementia symptoms promptly for better management and care.