Short-term changes in memory
If elderly people in your family such as grandparents or parents have changes in short-term memory such as only remembering childhood memories and forgetting recent events, this could be an early sign of dementia.
Difficulty finding the right words
Having trouble communicating can be another early symptom of dementia. People with the condition may have trouble explaining things or may have trouble finding the right words to express themselves.
Difficulty in communication is a common symptom in people with dementia, which is a consequence of nerve cell deterioration.
Mood swings
Depression is an early sign of dementia. In fact, mood swings during this time can also cause personality changes in older adults. Scientists have found that people who are depressed in late life have a 70% higher risk of developing dementia, while those who become depressed in midlife have an 80% higher risk.
Listless
A study by researchers at the University of Exeter found that apathy is the most common neurological symptom of dementia. In the study, nearly 50% of older people with the disease showed signs of apathy, a lack of interest in many things.
Confusion
Another sign of dementia is confusion. Studies show that hospitalized patients with dementia and underlying confusion have poorer outcomes than those without the condition. Disorientation, repetitiveness, and difficulty adapting to change can be other early signs of dementia in older adults.
