Introduction
Dementia is a serious condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can be difficult to recognize the signs of dementia, but it is important to be aware of them so that you can seek help if needed. In this article, we will discuss some of the major signs you may have dementia, according to experts. We will also provide tips on how to recognize these signs and what to do if you think you may have dementia. By understanding the signs of dementia, you can take steps to protect your health and well-being.
Major Signs You May Have Dementia, According to Experts
Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday activities. It is estimated that 5.8 million Americans are living with dementia, and the number is expected to triple by 2050. While dementia is most common in people over the age of 65, it can affect people of any age.
If you’re concerned that you or a loved one may be showing signs of dementia, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical advice. Here are some of the major signs you may have dementia, according to experts.
Memory Loss
One of the most common signs of dementia is memory loss. This can include forgetting recent events, conversations, or appointments. It can also include difficulty remembering names or faces, or forgetting how to do everyday tasks.
Confusion
People with dementia may become easily confused or disoriented. They may have difficulty understanding directions or following conversations. They may also become lost in familiar places or have trouble recognizing people they know.
Language Problems
People with dementia may have difficulty finding the right words to express themselves. They may also have difficulty understanding what others are saying.
Personality Changes
People with dementia may experience changes in their personality or behavior. They may become more withdrawn, irritable, or suspicious of others. They may also become more impulsive or have difficulty controlling their emotions.
Difficulty with Everyday Tasks
People with dementia may have difficulty with everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or managing finances. They may also have difficulty with activities that require concentration, such as reading or playing games.
Seeking Medical Advice
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of dementia and improve quality of life.
Dementia is a disorder that affects more than 55 million people worldwide according to the World Health Organization. “It is unclear why dementia affects so many people. Unfortunately dementia is a degenerative process and patients can develop dementia with advancing age,” says Dr. Parham Yashar, MD FACS FAANS Board Certified Neurosurgeon at Dignity Health Northridge Hospital. It’s caused when brain cells are damaged, which prevents the brain cells from communicating with each other. As a result, memory, thinking and behavior can be affected. There’s several signs that indicate someone has dementia and Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with Dr. Yashar and the Alzheimer’s Association who explained the symptoms to watch out for. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
According to Dr. Yashar, “The biggest complaint that patients do experience with dementia is forgetfulness.”
The Alzheimer’s Association adds, “Some memory changes can be a normal part of the aging process, but when changes start to interfere with daily living or stray drastically from the person’s normal behavior, it is best to get it checked. Some forms of cognitive decline are treatable, but even if it’s something more serious, getting a proper diagnosis will allow you to manage the condition optimally.”
If someone is having problems with completing routine daily errands and tasks, that could indicate dementia, explains Dr. Yashar. “Patients with dementia can have difficulty with tasks. These include retaining new information such as trouble remembering events, handling complex tasks (for example managing their finances), difficulty coping with unexpected events, word finding difficult, changes in their behavior or personality, or difficulty with orientation in familiar spaces and even getting lost in familiar places.”
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Oftentimes it’s a family member or loved one who notices signs of dementia and encourages medical treatment. Dr. Yashar reveals, “Most patients with dementia don’t initially see a doctor with a complaint of memory loss—it’s more frequent a spouse or family member that brings this issue to the attention of a doctor or healthcare worker.”
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According to the National Library of Medicine, “In 2017, a total of 261,914 deaths attributable to dementia as an underlying cause of death were reported in the United States. Forty-six percent of these deaths were due to Alzheimer’s disease.”
Dr. Yashar states, “Patients don’t actually die specifically from dementia. Rather, as the dementia becomes more and more advanced, they become more vulnerable to other issues including infections which can unfortunately lead to death.”
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The Alzheimer’s Association says, “One of the most common signs of dementia is memory loss, but there are other warning signs to look for, including judgment, mood, and executive functioning. For example, if you see a family member struggling with day-to-day tasks they used to do easily, like making a familiar recipe. Difficulty with words—getting lost mid-conversation and finding it hard to get back on track—is also common. Misplacing items and being unable to trace their steps to recall where they were is another sign. Finally, withdrawing from social gatherings and activities someone used to enjoy can be a red flag. The Alzheimer’s Association offers 10 early warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementia at www.alz.org.”
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“The best thing the patients can do to limit the extent of dementia is to keep their mind active, ” says Dr. Yashar. “Learn new tasks and keep your mind engaged. Continue to socialize with friends and family. And make sure to eat a healthy and Lucius diet while getting a good amount of sleep every night.” And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.