Dementia is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including about 8.8 million Indians above the age of 60, as reported by the Journal of Alzheimer’s Association. Identifying the earliest signs can be important because it opens up possibilities for interventions that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here we look at the most common early indicators of dementia, based on research and studies, to help us identify any changes that may be of concern to loved ones.

Getting lost in familiar places

One of the first signs of dementia is disorientation, even in places that the person visits frequently. According to a study from the University of Missouri, people with early-onset dementia may lose their way home or be unable to visit places they used to know well. Early dementia disrupts the brain’s spatial memory, which affects the person’s ability to recognize previously familiar locations, leading to this type of disorientation.

Difficulty remembering the names of close friends and family

Struggling to remember the names of loved ones is another red flag, as noted by the University of Missouri. While momentary forgetfulness is normal, dementia-related memory losses are persistent and may involve close relationships. Patients may pause or appear unsure when asked about close family members or friends, sometimes replacing names with general terms such as “that person.”
Families should be on the lookout for repeated signs of memory lapses, as this is often one of the more noticeable changes in the early stages of dementia.

Persistent low mood and anxiety

In many cases, early-stage dementia brings mood swings, including ongoing feelings of sadness or anxiety. According to research from the Australian Prescriber in 2011, people with dementia often experience these emotional changes before cognitive symptoms become apparent. While it’s common for older adults to experience mood swings, persistently low moods or uncharacteristic anxiety could indicate something more significant. These mood swings can go unnoticed because they can be mistaken for signs of typical aging or situational stress.

Visible difficulty walking or moving

Early dementia can also be reflected in changes in a person’s movement pattern. People with dementia may have problems with walking, balance or coordination, which can make them seem unsteady on their feet, according to research from Johns Hopkins Medicine. This symptom is associated with the neurological repercussions of dementia, which can affect both cognitive and physical abilities.

Loss of interest in hobbies and social activities

Another early symptom of dementia is identified as withdrawal from hobbies, social gatherings and activities that were once fun. This behavioral change is generally caused by a combination of cognitive and emotional reasons. As memory and comprehension become more difficult, activities that were once fun and enjoyable can become overwhelming or difficult.