Early indicators of dementia that individuals typically ignore
Dementia symptoms can include balance and coordination problems that many dismiss as normal ageing, with experts warning these early physical signs should not be overlooked
This sign is easy to miss(Image: Halfpoint Images via Getty Images)
Dementia is a broad term describing a deterioration in mental abilities serious enough to disrupt everyday life. Rather than being a single condition, it’s a collection of symptoms triggered by different brain conditions.
Alzheimer’s disease represents the most prevalent form of dementia, though other variants include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
While dementia is typically linked with forgetfulness, bewilderment, and struggles with routine activities, one frequently missed warning sign can manifest itself in an unexpected manner – while navigating stairs, reports Surrey Live.
Medical professionals are highlighting this less recognised early indicator of dementia that may emerge before major behavioural shifts become apparent. Alzheimer Scotland, a prominent dementia charity, has emphasised the significance of identifying symptoms beyond forgetfulness.
The organisation explained: “People often assume that memory loss and dementia are one and the same, but there are other key symptoms and signs to look out for. Every person with dementia is different. How their illness affects them depends on which areas of their brain are most damaged.”
Dementia manifests in numerous ways, and while memory problems, reduced thinking speed, decreased mental acuity, and communication challenges are recognised symptoms, there are additional warning signs that might signal its development. Alterations in stability, motor control, and spatial perception can serve as an early warning sign that something’s wrong, though many individuals brush off these gradual changes as simply part of getting older.
Beyond mental deterioration, dementia can also severely affect physical mobility owing to the sufferer’s reduced ability to gauge distances, probably resulting from the brain’s weakened capacity to interpret spatial data.
The illness can result in impaired visuospatial perception, making tasks like going up or down stairs more challenging. People may struggle to raise their feet and become increasingly susceptible to stumbles or tumbles.
Alzheimer Scotland cautions that dementia can transform how we navigate our surroundings, potentially creating a heightened risk of trips and tumbles.
The Alzheimer’s Society has emphasised that modifications in someone’s gait, such as dragging feet rather than raising them, could signal early dementia.
“Things like slips, trips and falls might become more common. You might start to notice that a person is shuffling as opposed to lifting their legs when they are walking,” the charity explains.
Should someone be experiencing trouble with staircases alongside other dementia indicators, it’s advisable to arrange a GP consultation for them. To enhance stairway safety, the society recommends discussing modifications with property owners or rental agencies where required and participating in strength and balance workouts.
“You can reduce your risk of falling by doing strength or balance exercises twice a week. These include sitting, standing and walking exercises. Your GP could also refer you to a physiotherapist.”
Moreover, the charity recommends inspecting homes for potential dangers such as loose carpets and clutter. The NHS also highlights other significant dementia symptoms to be vigilant about, including memory lapses and communication difficulties.
Dementia UK states that there are several other physical indicators of dementia
Dementia symptoms impacting cognitive ability
- Difficulty understanding time and place, e.g getting up in the middle of the night to go to work
- Difficulty with choosing what to buy and paying when shopping
- Struggling with decision-making and reasoning
- Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Restlessness such as pacing, fidgeting and trying to leave the house
Early signs of dementia
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Finding familiar daily tasks difficult or confusing
- Struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
- Being confused about time and place
- Mood changes
The NHS outlines these as typical early signs of dementia, however, it’s important to note that dementia affects individuals differently.
