10 Subtle Signs of Dementia You Might Be Missing

Dementia is a condition that affects many families in Malvern and across Worcestershire. While most people are aware of common symptoms like memory loss, there are other, less obvious signs that can indicate a potential issue. Early detection is crucial for accessing support and managing the condition effectively.

At Ashwell Home Care Services, we believe in empowering families with information. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 10 subtle signs of dementia that you might not be aware of. If you notice any of these changes in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional.

Here are 10 less commonly known signs of dementia:

• Forgetting names/places/how to do things: While occasional forgetfulness is normal, a person with early dementia might frequently forget the names of familiar people, struggle to remember their way around familiar places, or have difficulty with tasks they’ve done countless times before, like making a cup of tea.
• Reduced problem-solving abilities: Noticeable difficulty with tasks that require planning or problem-solving, such as following a recipe, managing finances, or understanding instructions, can be an early indicator.
• Difficulties with concentration: More than just being easily distracted, individuals with early dementia may find it increasingly hard to focus on tasks, follow conversations, or stay engaged in activities, even ones they used to enjoy.
• Communication – difficulty with word finding: It’s not just forgetting names; people with dementia may struggle to find the right words in conversation, often using vague terms or pausing frequently. This can be particularly frustrating for them and their loved ones.
• Increased feelings of depression: While depression can have many causes, it can also be an early symptom of dementia. Changes in mood, loss of interest in hobbies, and persistent sadness should be taken seriously.
• Time of day confusion – confusing over sleeping/waking patterns: This goes beyond simply feeling tired. Individuals might confuse day and night, be awake and restless during the night and sleepy during the day, or have difficulty understanding the time of day.
• Repetitiveness: Asking the same questions repeatedly, telling the same stories multiple times in a short period, or engaging in repetitive actions can be a subtle sign of underlying memory issues.
• Experiencing paranoia or hallucinations: In some cases, early dementia can manifest as feelings of suspicion, mistrust (paranoia), or even seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations). These experiences can be distressing for the individual.
• Change in personal appearance – less care taken: A noticeable decline in personal care, such as neglecting to shower, brush teeth, or wear clean clothes, can be a sign that cognitive abilities are being affected.
• Lack of motivation or interest: Apathy and a loss of interest in hobbies, social activities, or even everyday tasks can be an early indicator of dementia. This goes beyond occasional tiredness and represents a significant shift in engagement.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs in Malvern, Worcestershire:

If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one exhibiting these less common signs of dementia in the Malvern area, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your GP. They can conduct initial assessments and refer you for further evaluation if necessary.

How Ashwell Home Care Services Can Help in Worcestershire:

At Ashwell Home Care Services, we understand the complexities of dementia and are dedicated to providing compassionate and person-centred care to individuals in Malvern and throughout Worcestershire. Our trained caregivers can offer support with daily tasks, provide companionship, and create a safe and comfortable environment for those living with dementia.

We work closely with families to develop tailored care plans that address the unique needs of each individual. If you’d like to learn more about our dementia care services in Malvern, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.