Dementia develops slowly, and early signs are often subtle.
Many families mistake them for normal aging but recognizing symptoms early allows you to plan care, support your loved one, and ensure safety.
Here are the key early signs of dementia you shouldn’t ignore:
1. Memory Loss That Affects Daily Life
Occasionally forgetting things is normal.
But consistent patterns like:
• repeating the same question
• forgetting recent events
• misplacing items often
are early warning signs.
2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks
Activities once done easily — cooking, paying bills, using appliances — become confusing or overwhelming.
3. Confusion About Time or Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or where they are — even in familiar environments — is common in early dementia.
4. Trouble Finding the Right Words
Struggling to express thoughts, pausing mid-sentence, or calling objects by the wrong name can indicate cognitive changes.
5. Poor Judgment
Examples include:
• giving away money
• leaving the stove on
• wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather
• falling for scams
6. Withdrawal From Social Activities
A person may become quiet, avoid conversations, or lose interest in hobbies they once loved.
7. Changes in Mood or Personality
You may notice:
• increased anxiety
• irritability
• sadness
• suspicion
• sudden mood swings
When to Seek Support
If your loved one shows several of these signs, it may be time to:
- consult a physician
- increase supervision
- consider dementia-trained caregivers
At LAC Stellar Caregiving, our dementia caregivers provide gentle redirection, safety monitoring, and compassionate companionship — helping your loved one feel supported and understood.
Contact us to learn more about dementia care at home
