Dementia looms large in midlife, with memory lapses often ringing alarm bells.
However, symptoms linked to the brain condition are often more nuanced than just memory loss.
Furthermore, there are many different types of dementia, affecting different people in various ways.
Fortunately, Rob Martin, Managing Director of Care at Anchor, shared the eight red flag signs to be aware of.
Martin said: “Broadly, the symptoms associated with dementia are a decline in memory, reasoning and communication skills, a gradual loss of the ability to carry out daily activities and to make sense of the world around us, and confusion.”
However, the expert also recommended looking out for the following warning signs:
- Increased forgetfulness – for example forgetting recent events or forgetting the names of friends or everyday objects
- Losing the thread of a conversation
- Feeling confused even when in a familiar environment
- Increasing difficulties with tasks and activities that require concentration and planning
- Changes in behaviour and mood
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Orientation difficulties
- Difficulties with sequencing.
If you start experiencing symptoms of dementia, it’s crucial to speak to your doctor.
Martin said: “The NHS advises that if you or a loved one is becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if aged over 65, it is a good idea to seek medical advice in case it could be an early sign of dementia.
“Often, the fear of dementia can prevent people from seeking help or advice – but seeking advice early could rule out causes that may be treatable.”
This is important since an early diagnosis of the mind-robbing condition opens the door to future care and treatment.
While being diagnosed with dementia can be daunting, knowing who to turn to for help is “invaluable”, according to the expert.
Martin added: “Talking together about any worries can help, as can lending support at doctor or hospital appointments.
“You may also wish to discuss dementia care options and who could support with personal things such as decision making, banking, paying bills and shopping, should the dementia progress.”