Dementia Symptoms & Early Signs: What to Look For

Spotting dementia early can help you plan better care for your parent. The signs often start small and grow slowly over months or years. You might notice changes in memory, mood, or daily tasks. Knowing what to watch for means you can get help sooner and make the best choices for your family.

The First Signs You Might Notice

Memory Gaps That Worry You

Your parent forgets things they just heard or asks the same question twice. They might miss appointments or forget the names of people they know well. Small memory slips happen to everyone, but these happen more often and affect daily life. This is often the first sign that something is not quite right.

Lost in Familiar Places

They get confused in places they know well, like their own street or local shop. Your parent might struggle to follow a recipe they have made for years. Simple tasks take longer and need more effort than before. Getting lost at home or in the neighbourhood is a warning sign you should not ignore.

Words That Will Not Come

Your parent struggles to find the right word in conversation. They might call things by the wrong name or stop talking mid-sentence. Following a chat or TV programme becomes harder for them. These language problems often frustrate them and make them withdraw from social time.

Poor Choices and Bad Judgement

They make decisions that seem odd or risky, like wearing summer clothes in winter. Money management becomes messy, with unpaid bills or strange purchases. Personal care and hygiene may slip without them noticing. These changes in judgement can put your parent at risk.

Early Stage: Mild Symptoms

Thinking Problems

Memory loss affects recent events more than old memories. Your parent loses track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time. They struggle with planning tasks or solving simple problems. At this stage, they can still do most daily activities but need more prompts and help.

Behaviour Changes

They repeat stories or questions without realising it. Losing items happens often, and they might accuse others of taking things. Social activities get dropped as confidence fades. Your parent may seem less interested in hobbies or seeing friends.

Mood Shifts

Anxiety and confusion appear when routines change or in new places. They become frustrated easily, especially when they cannot do things they used to manage. Depression can set in as they sense something is wrong. These mood changes can be hard on both of you.

Physical Signs

Sleep patterns change, with more nighttime waking or daytime napping. They might move more slowly or seem less steady on their feet. Appetite can increase or decrease without clear reason. Physical changes are often subtle at this stage but still worth noting.

Middle Stage: Moderate Symptoms

Memory Gets Worse

Your parent forgets major events and details from their own life. They cannot recall their own address or phone number. Recognition problems start, and they might not know close family at first glance. This stage needs more day-to-day support from you.

Confusion Grows

Time and place confusion becomes a daily problem. Your parent cannot tell if it is morning or night, summer or winter. They get lost in their own home and wander looking for something familiar. Keeping them safe becomes your main concern.

Behaviour Becomes Challenging

Agitation and restlessness increase, especially late in the day. Your parent might become suspicious or believe things that are not true. Repetitive actions like pacing or asking the same question over and over test your patience. Some people become aggressive when confused or scared.

Daily Tasks Need Help

Dressing, washing, and eating all need support now. Your parent cannot use the phone, TV remote, or household appliances safely. Incontinence may start, adding to care needs. This stage means considering more intensive care options.

Language Problems Worsen

Finding words becomes very hard, and sentences trail off halfway. Your parent might use the wrong words or make up words that sound similar. Understanding what others say takes longer. Communication frustrations grow for both of you.

Late Stage: Severe Symptoms

Memory Almost Gone

Your parent cannot remember recent or past events at all. They do not recognise family members, including you. Long-term memories fade until only fragments remain. This loss of recognition is painful but not a reflection on your relationship.

>Communication Breaks Down

Speech becomes very limited or stops completely. Your parent might only say a few words or just make sounds. They cannot understand most of what you say. You learn to communicate through touch, tone, and facial expressions instead.

Physical Decline

Mobility reduces greatly, and many people become bed or chair bound. Swallowing problems make eating and drinking risky. Infections, especially chest and urine infections, become common. Full-time care is essential at this stage.

Complete Care Needs

Your parent needs help with every aspect of personal care. They cannot control bladder or bowel function. Weight loss often happens despite efforts to maintain nutrition. Professional care becomes necessary to keep them comfortable and safe.

When You Should Act

See the GP Soon

Book an appointment if you notice several of these signs. Early diagnosis opens doors to treatment, support, and planning time. Your parent has the right to know what is happening to them. Getting help early means better outcomes and more choices.

Keep a Symptoms Diary

Write down what you notice, when it happens, and how often. Note any triggers that make symptoms worse. This information helps doctors make an accurate diagnosis. Your observations are vital evidence.

Bring Someone to Appointments

Take a family member or friend with you for support. They can help remember what the doctor says and ask questions. Two sets of ears are better than one in stressful situations. You do not have to face this alone.

Ask About Next Steps

Find out about memory clinics, tests, and referrals. Ask what support is available now and in the future. Get information about benefits, care options, and local services. Knowledge helps you make informed choices.

Looking After Yourself

Your Health Matters Too

Caring for a parent with dementia is exhausting and stressful. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so look after your own wellbeing. Make time for rest, exercise, and activities you enjoy. Your health affects the quality of care you can give.

Get Support Early

Join a support group or talk to others in the same situation. Share the caring responsibilities with family members. Look into respite care so you can take breaks. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Plan for the Future

Talk to your parent about their wishes while they can still express them. Sort out legal matters like power of attorney and wills. Research care options and costs in your area. Planning ahead reduces stress when difficult decisions arrive.

Important note: This article provides general information only. Always consult your GP or healthcare professional for advice specific to your parent's situation. Every person with dementia is different, and symptoms vary.