stage: 1

The tasks that become difficult first — before anyone has used the word dementia

In the early stage of dementia, the areas that typically cause the most difficulty are complex tasks that require planning, sequencing, or holding multiple pieces of information in mind at once. Managing finances, following a new recipe, navigating unfamiliar places, and keeping track of appointments often become noticeably harder. Word-finding difficulties can make conversation frustrating. Short-term memory problems mean recent events and conversations are easily forgotten, while older memories remain clear. Many people also find it harder to follow a film or book because they lose track of the plot. Anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal are common in early stage dementia as people become aware of their own declining abilities.