Table of Contents

• 1. Frequent Memory Lapses That Disrupt Daily Life
• 2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks
• 3. Poor Judgment and Decision-Making
• 4. Changes in Mood, Personality, or Behavior
• 5. Confusion About Time or Place
• 6. Difficulty with Language or Communication
• 7. Misplacing Items and Being Unable to Retrace Steps
• What to Do if You Notice These Signs
• How In-Home Care Can Help
• Don’t Ignore the Early Signs of Dementia 

Caring for an aging loved one often involves paying attention to subtle changes in their behavior, memory, and daily routines. While occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, dementia typically begins with small shifts that become more noticeable over time. The earlier families recognize these signs, the sooner they can seek medical guidance, plan for the future, and ensure their loved one receives the support they need. 

Here are some of the most common early symptoms of dementia that families shouldn’t overlook. 

1. Frequent Memory Lapses That Disrupt Daily Life

Everyone forgets where they left their keys or why they entered a room from time to time. But in early dementia, memory issues persist beyond simple forgetfulness. You may notice your loved one:

• Forgetting recent conversations or events
• Asking the same question repeatedly 
• Relying more on notes or reminders
• Continuing to miss appointments or important dates

When memory problems begin affecting daily activities, it’s a sign to look deeper.

2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks

Tasks your loved one has done for years may suddenly become confusing or overwhelming. This could include:

• Having trouble following a recipe or making a grocery list
• Having difficulty managing finances or working with numbers
• Getting lost while driving a familiar route
• Struggling to use household appliances
• Forgetting the steps to personal routines

These challenges point to more than normal aging; they may indicate lapses in cognitive processing. 

3. Poor Judgment and Decision-Making

Early dementia often affects the brain’s ability to evaluate situations clearly. Families may notice a loved one:

• Falling for scams or giving away large amounts of money
• Wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather 
• Neglecting personal hygiene or grooming
• Making risky or uncharacteristic choices

Unusual patterns in judgment are often one of the earliest red flags. 

4. Changes in Mood, Personality, or Behavior

Dementia doesn’t just affect memory; it also impacts emotional regulation and personality. You might see:

• Increased irritability or mood swings
• Anxiety, fearfulness, or seeming “on edge”
• Withdrawal from social activities or becoming more isolated
• Uncharacteristic depression or apathy 
• Losing interest in hobbies 

Loved ones may seem “different,” and families often sense that “something’s just off.” 

5. Confusion About Time or Place

Another common warning sign is disorientation. Individuals may:

• Get confused about dates, seasons, or the time of day
• Forget where they are or why they’re there
• Lose track of how much time has passed
• Have a hard time understanding concepts like “yesterday/tomorrow”

This type of confusion can lead to safety concerns, especially if driving or walking outside the home. 

6. Difficulty with Language or Communication

You may notice your loved one struggling to find the right words or follow a conversation. Other early communication issues include:

• Repeating words or phrases
• Losing their train of thought
• Calling objects by the wrong name
• Pausing mid-sentence 
• Becoming frustrated or agitated during conversations 

These changes often show up subtly at first, especially in group environments. 

7. Misplacing Items and Being Unable to Retrace Steps

It’s normal to occasionally misplace something. But people with early dementia may:

• Put items in unusual places, such as keys in the refrigerator 
• Accuse others of stealing things they misplaced
• Be unable to retrace steps to find lost items

This is often one of the easiest and most noticeable symptoms. 

What to Do if You Notice These Signs

If you recognize any of these symptoms in a loved one, don’t panic, but don’t ignore them either. Step-by-step actions include:

• Document the changes you’ve observed
• Schedule a medical evaluation, ideally with a neurologist or geriatric specialist 
• Discuss concerns openly with your loved ones and family members
• Consider early planning, including care needs, home safety, and legal decisions
• Reach out for support, including in-home care providers, support groups, and community resources

Early detection gives families the chance to create a safe, supportive environment for their loved one.

How In-Home Care Can Help

If you can’t take care of a loved one or need support, consider in-home care. A caregiver can:

• Help a loved one remember medication
• Assist with meal preparation and daily routines
• Provide companionship to reduce isolation
• Monitor them to prevent falls or wandering
• Transport them to appointments
• Engage in cognitive activities with your loved one

These services give families peace of mind and help loved ones maintain independence longer. 

Don’t Ignore the Early Signs of Dementia 

It’s never easy to recognize the signs of early dementia, especially when changes happen gradually. But trusting your instincts and paying attention to these symptoms can make all the difference. With the right care, proactive planning, and compassionate support, families can help their loved ones navigate the challenges ahead with more dignity, understanding, and peace of mind.