10 Early Signs of Dementia
Dementia is not a normal part of aging. The key warning sign is a persistent change that begins interfering with everyday life.
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Forgetting recently learned information — conversations, appointments, or events.
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Repeating questions or stories without realizing it.
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Difficulty planning or solving problems — such as managing familiar finances.
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Trouble completing familiar tasks at home, work, or elsewhere.
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Losing track of dates, time, or familiar locations.
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Difficulty finding words or following conversations.
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Frequently misplacing objects and being unable to retrace your steps.
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New problems with judgment — especially involving money or personal safety.
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Losing interest in familiar hobbies or social activities.
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Persistent changes in personality, mood, or behavior.
These symptoms don’t necessarily mean dementia. Depression, sleep disorders, medication side effects, hearing or vision problems, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, and other conditions can produce similar symptoms.
Habits that support brain health
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Exercise regularly, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
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Keep blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol under control.
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Don’t smoke.
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Eat a varied diet rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and fish, while limiting highly processed foods.
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Get adequate, regular sleep and seek help for persistent insomnia or suspected sleep apnea.
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Stay socially and mentally active through conversation, reading, music, learning, hobbies, or games.
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Address hearing and vision problems and use appropriate correction.
One important distinction: sudden confusion developing over hours or days is not typical of dementia. It can be delirium caused by infection, medication effects, dehydration, or another acute problem and should be assessed promptly.
