01/06/2026
Dementia is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the mind and body as we age. The signs of the early stages of dementia can include the avoidance of being sociable, stopping hobbies, going to work, or playing sports. This could be because your parent feels disconnected from the world or is unable to take part in regular social interaction.
Your parent may also feel ashamed about the changes they’re going through, so they may show signs of reclusiveness. The changes are gradual, which may give your parent time to receive an early diagnosis and to slow or prevent progression. Here are a few of the early signs of Dementia to look out for.
Memory loss
Recent memory loss is one of the most common early signs of dementia. It involves forgetting recently learned information, or forgetting appointments, names, and telephone numbers – and not remembering them later.
The most recognizable dementia memory loss symptoms include asking for the same information over and over and the repetition of stories. This is a common occurrence for both vascular dementia symptoms and Alzheimer's symptoms. This can cause significant frustration and anger for both the client and the caregiver.
Forgetting how to do everyday tasks
Your parent may start to find it hard to complete daily tasks, such as brewing a cup of coffee or turning off the stove.
Forgetting how to do everyday tasks is highly upsetting to clients. They become fearful, anxiety-ridden, and afraid.
Problems with language
One of the most common symptoms NHS GPs report is communication and language problems. This may include struggling to follow or join a conversation, or stopping mid-sentence with no idea how to continue.
Other early signs of dementia include consistently forgetting words (anomia) and the meanings of simple words, or using them in the wrong context. For example, a person may say “put the rubbish in the sink” instead of “put the rubbish in the bin.” Or they may call their partner by a generic term such as “that man” or “that lady.”
These are only three signs; there are many more, and each week I will write a little about signs, symptoms, and options for those facing dementia. If your loved one experiences any of these symptoms, you can contact your health care provider. Early treatment helps.