Dementia is not a disease in itself but a general umbrella term that describes common symptoms. Dementia symptoms result from damage to the brain cells caused by different diseases, such as Alzheimer’s. Individuals with dementia can experience varying symptoms according to the part of the brain affected so here we share what signs and symptoms to look out for.
Common early symptoms of dementia
Dementia affects each individual differently, their experiences depend on the symptoms they have. But there are some common early warning signs of dementia including:
Loss of memory
Attention deficit and lack of concentration
Difficulty in performing daily life tasks
Find it hard to hold a conversation or finding the right words
Confusion regarding time and place
Abrupt behaviour and mood swings
These symptoms are likely to be mild when they first appear, but as time passes, get progressively worse. This stage is known as ‘mild cognitive impairment’ (MCI), as the symptoms are not often severe enough for a dementia diagnosis.
Since mild cognitive decline is the most common symptom of dementia, individuals need to get themselves checked. These symptoms can go unnoticed even by friends and family.
Dementia is not a guaranteed part of ageing so if you or your loved one experiences any symptoms, you should contact the GP to assess the risk factor of developing dementia.
Symptoms specific to vascular dementia
One of the most common types of dementia is vascular dementia. It can also occur simultaneously with any other form of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, and such a condition is called ‘mixed dementia’.
The symptoms of vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are similar, the only difference being that the former has no obvious sign of memory loss in the early stages. However, symptoms can develop suddenly, and the progression of this form of dementia can be rapid.
Vascular dementia can develop due to brain damage and impaired blood flow to the brain. It can occur after a stroke blocks an artery in the brain but it’s not guaranteed that a stroke will always lead to vascular dementia, it largely depends on the severity and location of the stroke.
Vascular dementia can also develop due to other conditions that damage blood vessels and reduce circulation, depriving the brain of vital oxygen and nutrients.
Some symptoms of vascular dementia are:
Stroke-like symptoms, where the affected individual feels physical weakness and temporary paralysis
Mobility issues
Confused state of mind
Abrupt changes in mood
Symptoms specific to dementia with Lewy bodies
Lewy body dementia is another form of dementia and has symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s. People with Lewy body dementia will experience fluctuating energy levels and a disturbed state of thinking. They can also have visual hallucinations and might get slower in performing physical tasks.
They can also find it hard to balance themselves, which can lead to falls and fainting. Sometimes, they can also have sleeping problems, which can negatively affect their quality of life.
Symptoms specific to frontotemporal dementia
The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's, which occurs mostly in people under 65, but a higher percentage of people in this age group might develop frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Most people diagnosed with FTD are between 45-65.
The earliest symptoms of FTD include:
Changes in personality
Declining social awareness
Issues with linguistics
Obsessions with particular items or things
Symptoms in the later stages of dementia
One sign of dementia progression is the symptoms getting more severe. With the onset of dementia, your loved one usually has symptoms that can be easily overlooked or missed. But over time the symptoms will not only become obvious, but also begin to hinder their day-to-day life.
Memory loss and difficulty with communication will become severe. Living with dementia means they can start to neglect their well-being, which means they may need more support from others including home carer visits. Many of our clients live happily and independently at home with dementia because of the additional support they receive from our team.
The most common signs and symptoms of advanced dementia are the following:
Memory problems: Difficulty recognising family members and friends, recalling past events, where they live or where they are.
Communication problems: Difficulty with speech or comprehending what the others are trying to convey.
Problems with mobility: Challenges with walking around their home and eventually becoming confined to bed.
Behavioural issues: Most people with dementia will develop behavioural problems and psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, wandering, aggression, or hallucinations.
Late-stage dementia could also aggravate or increase the risk of developing other medical conditions. These include bladder incontinence, bowel incontinence, loss of appetite and weight loss.
It is also possible that they might have physical symptoms such as tremors, muscle spasms or weakness, stiffness, or poor coordination and balance.
Hallucinations or delusions can be a part of psychiatric symptoms but these are not as common as behavioural and language changes.
Get checked - early detection matters.
If you or a loved one notice any of the above signs and you have a family history of dementia, contact your GP. Remember, it’s natural to be concerned about these signs, but getting checked early will help identify any underlying conditions, such as brain disorders, assess the risk of dementia and help you and your family get the right support if needed.
Healthcare professionals recommend you keep up-to-date records of medical history and keep a log of any symptoms you start to notice. This will help when it comes to getting a diagnosis.
What’s the difference between Alzheimer’s and typical age-related changes?
The difference between age-related changes and Alzheimer’s/dementia is that the former occurs once in a while. On the other hand, Alzheimer’s or dementia can cause obvious cognitive issues and cause challenges in the individual's daily life.
Home care services for your loved one with dementia
Seeing your loved one struggle in their daily life can be challenging and upsetting so it’s important you seek advice and support from professional home care services for them as soon as possible. We have many clients with dementia who now have regular visits from our care team and are living safely and happily in the comfort of their own home. Getting the right support is key.
We offer professional Home Care Services for individuals with dementia. Our services are completely tailored around your loved one’s normal routine and needs.
Find out more about our Companionship Support Services in Melksham, Bath and surrounding areas as well as our daily Home Care Service by getting in touch below.
Helping your loved one to continue living independently and confidently in their own home.
By providing a range of support at home, we’re helping many clients across Bath & North East Somerset and West Wiltshire retain their independence and stay in control in the comfort of their own homes.
Remember we’re always here if you want to chat about your care options. Just get in touch:
Call 0333 043 4880 - Email enquiries@abneyandbaker.com - Book a call here