Spotting the symptoms of dementia early can ensure an accurate diagnosis and allow you to use treatments more effectively.
In his recently-released book, How To Prevent Dementia, neurologist and author Dr Richard Restak shared the lesser-known signs of dementia to look out for.
He said “in most cases, an onset event or starting point [for dementia] cannot be identified” even though “we know for sure… that the disease process begins long before the first appearance of symptoms”.
It can be hard to spot the early signs, but all cases are “marked by an uncertain starting point called Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)”.
Dr Restak said MCI isn’t always a sign of dementia. He continued: “MCI may or may not be the initial starting point for Alzheimer’s disease; only the passage of time can permit that determination.”
MCI may not always mean Alzheimer’s is on the way, but the condition very often begins with MCI.
Monitoring the “barely noticeable” changes can be key, said Dr Restak.
Spotting MCI early requires a keen eye, he added, as it involves a mild decline in thinking, “occurring in a setting of overall generally acceptable function”.
But shopping for groceries is a good example of when signs may show up.
Dr Restak said: “The person with MCI can come and go to the supermarket, for instance, but must write down a grocery list; nor can the person remember, as done previously, the aisle in which a particular grocery item can be found.”
Another example of MCI is a businessman who suddenly needs to start taking notes in meetings and becoming increasingly forgetful and irritable.
But again, it’s important to note MCI doesn’t always indicate dementia.
Dr Restak said: “MCI affects about 8 percent of people in the ages 65–69 range; 10 percent of those in the 70–74 range, and 15 percent of people 75–79 years of age.
“Over a third of people aged 85 and older are affected with MCI.”
If you’re worried about your memory or think you may have dementia, it’s a good idea to see a GP, says the NHS.
The health service adds: “If you’re worried about someone else’s memory problems, encourage them to make an appointment with a GP and perhaps suggest that you go with them.
“Getting a diagnosis gives you and your family the best chance to prepare for the future.
“With treatment and support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends, many people are able to lead active, fulfilling lives with dementia.”
