10 Signs of Dementia You Should Never Ignore — and Habits You Can Start Today

Everyone forgets names, misplaces keys, or loses track of a thought from time to time. Dementia is different: the changes are usually persistent, progressive, and disruptive to everyday life.

Recognizing possible warning signs can encourage earlier medical evaluation and help identify conditions that may be treatable.

10 signs to watch for

1. Memory loss that affects everyday life

Repeatedly forgetting recently learned information, conversations, appointments, or important events can be concerning.

2. Difficulty completing familiar tasks

Someone may struggle with activities they’ve done for years, such as preparing a familiar meal, managing finances, or navigating a familiar route.

3. Problems with planning and problem-solving

Increasing difficulty following a familiar recipe, paying bills, organizing tasks, or handling routine decisions may signal cognitive changes.

4. Confusion about time or place

Frequently losing track of dates, seasons, or locations—or becoming disoriented in familiar surroundings—deserves attention.

5. Increasing difficulty finding words

A person may frequently pause, lose their train of thought, use incorrect words, or struggle to follow a conversation.

6. Misplacing things unusually often

Occasionally losing something is normal. A more concerning pattern is putting objects in unusual places and being unable to retrace one’s steps.

7. Changes in judgment

Uncharacteristic financial decisions, susceptibility to scams, or significant changes in personal-care habits can sometimes accompany cognitive decline.

8. Withdrawing from hobbies and social activities

Someone may gradually stop participating in activities they previously enjoyed, especially if they’re having trouble keeping up.

9. Noticeable changes in mood or personality

Apathy, anxiety, irritability, suspiciousness, or other significant behavioral changes can occur with some forms of dementia.

10. Increasing difficulty recognizing people or objects

Some types of dementia can affect a person’s ability to recognize familiar faces, objects, sounds, or their purpose.