Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia often begin with small changes. A misplaced item, a forgotten word, or a shift in personality may not seem alarming on their own, but together they can point to something more serious. The Alzheimer’s Association stresses that noticing these changes early can help people get the care and support they need.
Dementia is an umbrella term for conditions that affect memory, reasoning, and daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause, marked by progressive damage to brain cells. Let’s explore five early warning signs that the Association highlights and how they differ from normal age-related changes.
5 Early warning signs of dementia
Not every slip of memory or change in behavior means dementia. There are certain symptoms, especially when they interfere with independence, that should not be ignored. These are five early signals of Alzheimer’s and related conditions.
1. Changes in judgment
Poor decision-making is a sign that can appear early. This might look like unusual choices with money, such as giving away large sums, or neglecting personal hygiene. While anyone can make a careless mistake, a pattern of risky or uncharacteristic decisions could indicate cognitive decline. Families often notice this shift when loved ones stop managing bills, grooming, or household responsibilities the way they once did.
2. New problems with words
One of the first signs is difficulty with language. Finding the right word can become a struggle, or they may misname familiar objects, like calling a “watch” a “hand-clock”. While everyone occasionally blanks on a word, consistent struggles with speaking or writing can point to more serious changes.
3. Mood and personality shifts
Alzheimer’s and other dementias affect not only memory but also mood. Someone may become unusually anxious, suspicious, or easily upset. Depression, fearfulness, and agitation can show up in familiar settings or when routines change. While aging can bring some irritability, sudden or extreme changes in personality often reflect deeper neurological issues.
4. Misplacing things often
Placing items in unusual spots is another red flag. Someone might put car keys in the refrigerator or store a wallet in a dresser drawer. What makes this symptom different from normal forgetfulness is the inability to retrace steps and find the item again. In later stages, this can lead to suspicions or even accusations of theft, as memory gaps grow more severe.
5. Withdrawing from activities
As communication becomes harder, many people living with Alzheimer’s start to pull away from hobbies, social gatherings, or even work. They may stop following a favorite sports team or lose interest in activities they once loved because they can’t keep up with conversations. Withdrawal from social life is not just a personality change—it can signal the frustration and confusion tied to dementia.
Recognizing signs of dementia early
Spotting these signs doesn’t mean a diagnosis is certain, but it does mean it’s time to seek medical advice. The Alzheimer’s Association emphasizes that early detection allows people to access treatment options, participate in clinical research, and plan for the future. If you notice these changes in yourself or a loved one, don’t dismiss them as normal aging—bring them to a doctor’s attention.
