There’s some symptoms which might go under the radar that could be an early sign of dementia. Alzheimer’s Society says there are six most common symptoms of dementia. It says that over half of UK adults don’t know some of the most symptoms.
One of these is memory loss such as problems recalling things which have recently happened. Another symptom is difficulty organising your thoughts, for example struggling to make decisions. You may also have problems using words or communicating. Some people with dementia may experience problems with vision too such as difficulty judging distances. The fifth symptom is getting confused about time or place.
The sixth and final symptom is experiencing changes in mood or personality, for example feeling anxious or withdrawn.
Alzheimer’s Society says: “Around one million people are living with dementia in the UK and a third do not have a diagnosis.
“Yet, our research reveals that over 60% of UK adults do not know that problems with vision can sometimes be a symptom of dementia – and one in ten could not name a single common symptom of dementia.”
If you’re worried you may have dementia, you should seek medical advice.
NHS says it’s normal for your memory to be affected by stress, tiredness, certain illnesses and medicines.
However, it warns if you’re becoming increasingly forgetful, particularly if you’re over the age of 65, it’s a good idea to talk to a GP about the early signs of dementia.
It adds: “Memory loss (amnesia) can be annoying if it happens occasionally, but if it’s affecting your daily life, or it’s worrying you, or someone you know, you should get help from a GP.
“Dementia is not only about memory loss. It can also affect the way you speak, think, feel and behave. It’s also important to remember that dementia is not a natural part of ageing.”