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    Signs and Symptoms

    Signs and symptoms of dementia vary It is natural for small memory lapses or slight difficulties in processing information to occur with ageing. However, when these changes begin to interfere with day-to-day independence, dementia may be present.

    The 10 warning signs

    Adapted from Alzheimer's Disease International and the Alzheimer's Association

    Sign 1/10

    Memory loss

    Repeatedly forgetting recent information, important dates or appointments. Increasingly relying on reminders or family members for usual tasks, or frequently repeating the same questions.

    Sign 2/10

    Difficulty performing familiar tasks

    Difficulty performing familiar tasks such as cooking, making a phone call or putting on clothes in the correct order.

    Sign 3/10

    Problems with language

    Difficulty following or taking part in a conversation, losing track halfway through, or having trouble following simple instructions. Difficulty with vocabulary, such as naming everyday objects.

    Sign 4/10

    Disorientation to time and place

    Getting lost in familiar places, confusing dates or having difficulty understanding a sequence of events. Forgetting where they are or how they got to a certain place.

    Sign 5/10

    Poor or decreased judgement

    Reduced judgement, such as making inappropriate purchases, being easily deceived or neglecting hygiene and self-care.

    Sign 6/10

    Difficulty with abstract concepts

    Changes in the ability to make decisions, organise tasks or manage bill payments.

    Sign 7/10

    Misplacing things

    Putting objects in unusual places and being unable to retrace steps to find them.

    Sign 8/10

    Changes in mood and personality

    Emotional changes, such as increased irritability, anxiety, apathy, suspicion or changes in social behaviour.

    Sign 9/10

    Challenges understanding visual and spatial information

    Changes in the perception of distance, contrast or depth. It may become difficult to read, judge distances, go up or down steps or drive safely. These changes are related to the brain's processing of visual information and not only to eyesight problems.

    Sign 10/10

    Withdrawal from work and social life

    Loss of interest in hobbies, social activities or usual commitments, avoiding social situations due to difficulty following conversations or activities.

    If several of these signs are present persistently and represent a change from the person’s usual functioning, assessment by a healthcare professional is recommended. An early diagnosis makes it possible to clarify the situation, rule out reversible causes and begin appropriate follow-up.

    Symptoms in the stages of dementia

    Dementia is a progressive condition. Although symptoms vary depending on the specific type of dementia, they can be summarised into three stages of progression. It is important to note that each person experiences dementia in a unique way, and symptoms from different stages may overlap or may not appear at all.

    Mild stage

    In the early stage of dementia, difficulties are mild and many people with dementia are able to function mostly independently in their day-to-day lives, needing supervision and support in organising daily routines.

    Moderate stage

    Common symptoms in the moderate stage of dementia result from more pronounced cognitive changes. The person has greater difficulty with orientation, may confuse the time of day, become disoriented even at home, have more difficulty recognising even family members and repeat topics of conversation more often.

    There is a greater impact on day-to-day activities, such as dressing, hygiene and eating, making caregiver support more necessary. Changes in perception and judgement of reality may also appear, associated with more pronounced mood and behavioural changes, including episodes of distress or aggression.

    Advanced stage

    In the advanced stage, dementia has a broader impact on the person’s life. At this stage, the symptoms of the different types of dementia become more similar.

    It is common for the person to experience an altered perception of time. Verbal communication becomes more limited, and increased muscle rigidity and changes in walking are common. Difficulties with eating and swallowing may appear, as well as vulnerability to infections, especially pneumonia. At this stage, permanent care is required.

    Each person experiences dementia in a unique way. Knowledge is essential in order to seek the best support and provide the best care.depending on the cause.