Medically reviewed by Dr. Muhammad Ashraf Shera.
Many people don’t realise that dementia is not a disease. It is in fact a collection of symptoms that indicate damage to the brain caused by other diseases. It affects a person’s cognitive functions. People find it difficult to remember things, communicate and think. Detecting dementia early on can make it easier for the person to accommodate to the changes. It can help family members make the necessary adjustments as well. In this article we will talk about the early signs of dementia, what diseases they could indicate and why early diagnosis is important.
Signs of dementia
- Memory loss
- Frequently getting confused about simple things
- Mood changes
- Difficulty doing familiar tasks
- Problems in communicating like forgetting words or not being able to follow a conversation
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Difficulty sleeping
- Problems in movement like difficulty walking
Dementia could indicate…
As mentioned earlier, dementia is an indication of other diseases affecting the brain, such as:
Why early diagnosis is important
It is often a confusing experiencing for the patient, friends and family. So, early diagnosis can help the patient understand what is happening to them. Also, knowing the cause of symptoms can help with transitioning into a different lifestyle. Moreover, early detection also means early access to treatments that can slow down the effects and improve symptoms. Furthermore, it gives time to the patient to prepare for the future and plan ahead, such as deciding what kind of support and care they want. It also allows people to live good lives because they are able to access advice and support. Evidence suggests that with an early diagnosis people can continue to live independently for longer. This means that quality of life is still maintained. Furthermore, knowing the type of dementia is very important because it can help families, friends and healthcare workers provide the right kind of support.
We hope that this article is helpful. If someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor right away. You can also seek advice from medical professionals on our app for free.
