Dementia is a broad term used to describe a range of neurological conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behavior, interfering with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. According to the World Health Organization, over 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, a number that is expected to grow as populations age. Early diagnosis is key to managing the progression of the disease and improving quality of life.Recognizing the early warning signs of dementia is crucial, as they can be subtle and easy to dismiss as part of the natural aging process. However, early detection allows individuals to seek medical advice and begin interventions that may slow the disease’s progression. Below are 12 early warning signs of dementia to watch out for, many of which may occur well before the disease reaches its later stages.Memory LossOne of the most common early signs of dementia is memory loss, particularly forgetting recently learned information. While it’s normal to occasionally forget appointments or names, individuals with dementia frequently forget important dates or events and may ask the same questions repeatedly. They often rely on memory aids, such as notes or electronic reminders, to keep track of information.Difficulty with Problem Solving or PlanningDementia can make it harder to follow plans or work with numbers. Tasks that require concentration, like paying bills or following a recipe, can become difficult. Individuals may find themselves taking longer to complete tasks or making more mistakes than usual. Difficulty planning and problem-solving can be an early indicator of changes in the brain associated with dementia.Confusion with Time or PlacePeople with dementia often lose track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it’s not happening immediately. Additionally, they may forget where they are or how they got there. For example, they might get lost in a familiar place, such as their neighborhood or a frequently visited store.Difficulty Completing Familiar TasksA person with dementia may struggle to complete routine activities they once did effortlessly. This could include anything from driving to a familiar location, managing a budget, or remembering the rules of a favorite game. As dementia progresses, even basic daily tasks like dressing or bathing may become challenging.Trouble with LanguageDementia can cause difficulty finding the right words or following conversations. Individuals might pause frequently during conversations, struggle to recall words, or substitute incorrect words that make it hard for others to understand them. In addition, they may have trouble with writing or struggle to follow along with discussions they previously found easy.Misplacing Items and Inability to Retrace StepsEveryone misplaces items from time to time, but people with dementia often put things in unusual places, such as leaving the keys in the refrigerator or placing a wallet in a bathroom cabinet. They may be unable to retrace their steps to find misplaced items and could accuse others of stealing when they can’t find something they misplaced.Poor JudgmentChanges in decision-making and judgment are common in the early stages of dementia. Individuals may experience lapses in judgment when dealing with money, such as giving large amounts of money to telemarketers or charities. They may also neglect their hygiene or appearance, wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather or occasion.Withdrawal from Social ActivitiesPeople with early-stage dementia often begin withdrawing from work, hobbies, or social engagements. They may avoid group activities or lose interest in things they once enjoyed, citing fatigue or a lack of motivation. This could be due to difficulty following conversations or remembering details, which can lead to feelings of embarrassment or frustration.Changes in Mood or PersonalityMood swings, depression, anxiety, and increased irritability can also signal the onset of dementia. People with dementia may become easily upset in situations where they previously wouldn’t have, or they might become unusually withdrawn or anxious, particularly in unfamiliar environments or around strangers. Some may become more suspicious or paranoid, which can be especially distressing for family members.Difficulty with Spatial Awareness and Visual PerceptionDementia can affect a person’s spatial awareness and visual perception. They may have trouble judging distances or determining contrast between colors, leading to accidents such as tripping over objects or failing to recognize familiar faces. These visual-spatial difficulties can make driving or navigating public spaces particularly dangerous.Repetitive BehaviorsRepetitive actions, such as repeating questions, tasks, or movements, can be an early sign of dementia. For example, an individual might repeatedly wash their hands, pace back and forth, or ask the same question multiple times despite receiving an answer. This behavior often stems from memory loss or confusion.Changes in Sleep PatternsIndividuals with dementia may experience changes in their sleep habits, such as sleeping during the day and becoming restless at night. They may also have difficulty falling or staying asleep. Some people with dementia wander during the night, which can be disorienting and dangerous, particularly if they attempt to leave the house or engage in activities that require supervision.ConclusionDementia affects individuals differently, and the onset of symptoms can vary from person to person. However, being aware of these 12 early warning signs can help individuals and their families identify potential cognitive decline early on. If you or a loved one is experiencing any combination of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. While there is no cure for dementia, early diagnosis allows for better management of the disease, access to treatments, and planning for the future.