If you’re looking for the details behind this headline, these changes are worth taking seriously—but one symptom alone does not mean someone has dementia. Memory and thinking problems can have other causes, some of which are treatable.
10 early warning signs to watch for
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life — repeatedly forgetting recently learned information, conversations, or important events.
- Repeating questions or stories — asking for the same information over and over.
- Difficulty planning or solving problems — trouble managing bills, following a familiar recipe, or organizing routine tasks.
- Difficulty completing familiar activities — problems with cooking, driving, shopping, or using familiar household devices.
- Confusion about time or place — losing track of dates, seasons, or where they are.
- Difficulty finding words or following conversations — struggling to name familiar objects or keep up with a discussion.
- Misplacing things unusually often — putting objects in inappropriate places and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
- Poorer judgment or decision-making — increasingly making decisions that are noticeably out of character or unsafe.
- Withdrawal from normal activities — losing interest in hobbies, social activities, or things previously enjoyed.
- Changes in mood or personality — increased anxiety, irritability, suspicion, or other noticeable behavioral changes.
What’s the difference from normal aging?
Occasionally forgetting a name, misplacing something, or forgetting a date and remembering it later can happen with normal aging. A more concerning pattern is when memory or thinking problems become frequent and begin interfering with everyday independence.
What should you do?
If you or a family member is experiencing persistent or worsening changes in memory, language, judgment, or everyday functioning, arrange a medical evaluation. A clinician can investigate whether the problem is dementia or another condition and determine whether treatment is available.
