Early Signs of Dementia

by Melissa Martin

Overview

Dementia is the name for a group of symptoms caused by disorders of the brain, such as Alzheimer's disease. Dementia most commonly affects those over the age of 65, but people in their 40s and 50s may experience early symptoms. Recognizing the early signs of dementia is imperative for effective diagnosis and treatment.
Progressive Memory Loss

People with dementia often cannot remember recent events and may ask the same questions repeatedly. They may forget how to perform simple daily tasks and often misplace items. Severity of memory loss associated with dementia increases over time.

Disorientation

Dementia often causes disorientation about time and place. A person may suddenly forget where he is, how he got there and how to get home.
Changes in Personality

A person with dementia may have sudden mood swings and experience extreme emotions ranging from fear to anger to sadness.
Impaired Language Skills

Forgetting certain words, even simple ones, is common among those with dementia. They may substitute inappropriate words, making conversation difficult.
Loss of Interest

A person with dementia may lose interest in activities she once enjoyed. She may also lose initiative to leave the house or see friends and family.