We all know about memory loss when it comes to dementia, but there’s a lot more to it than just forgetting things. Sometimes, the early signs of dementia can be pretty sneaky. They might show up in ways you wouldn’t expect, making them easy to miss or brush off as just getting older.
Understanding these 15 less common signs could help you or someone you care about get help early. Remember, noticing these signs doesn’t always mean dementia, but it’s good to be aware and chat with a doctor if you’re worried.
Changes in Sense of Humor
A person’s sense of humor might change in unexpected ways. They might start laughing at inappropriate times or find humor in situations that aren’t funny. On the flip side, they might lose the ability to understand jokes they once enjoyed. This change can be subtle at first but may become more noticeable over time.
Difficulty Reading Social Cues
Someone with early dementia might struggle to pick up on social cues. They may miss sarcasm or fail to understand body language. This can lead to awkward social interactions or misunderstandings. They might also have trouble recognizing when it’s their turn to speak in a conversation.
Hoarding Tendencies
Unusual hoarding behaviors might emerge. The person might start collecting items that seem useless or keeping things well past their expiration date. They may become very protective of these items and resist attempts to clean or organize them. This behavior is different from typical collecting hobbies.
Eating Inedible Objects
In rare cases, a person with dementia might try to eat items that aren’t food. This could include things like soap, dirt, or even small objects. It’s a condition called pica, and while it’s not common, it can be a sign of cognitive decline. This behavior can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
Changes in Musical Taste
Someone who’s always loved classical music might suddenly prefer pop, or vice versa. They might also lose interest in music altogether. This change isn’t just about preferences evolving – it’s a more drastic and unexplained shift. Music is processed in many parts of the brain, so changes in musical taste can signal cognitive changes.
Trouble Understanding Visual Images
Beyond memory issues, some people with dementia have trouble making sense of what they see. They might have difficulty judging distances or telling colors apart. This can make everyday tasks like reading a map or recognizing objects challenging. It can also affect their ability to drive safely.
You may also like: Turning 60? Start Avoiding These 10 Foods According To Science
Staring
You might notice a loved one staring blankly into space more often. They might seem to “zone out” during conversations or activities. This isn’t just daydreaming – it’s a prolonged, vacant stare. It can be a sign that the brain is having trouble processing information or maintaining focus.
Unusual Sleep Patterns
Dementia can disrupt the body’s internal clock. Someone might start sleeping during the day and staying up all night. They might also have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. These changes can be more extreme than typical age-related sleep changes and can significantly impact daily life.
Repetitive Behaviors
A person might start repeating the same action over and over. This could be physical, like folding the same shirt multiple times, or verbal, like asking the same question repeatedly even after getting an answer. These behaviors often seem purposeless and can be frustrating for both the person and their caregivers.
Loss of Filter
Someone with early dementia might start saying socially inappropriate things. They may blurt out offensive comments or share very personal information in public. This isn’t just being rude – it’s a loss of the social filter that usually stops us from saying everything we think. It can be embarrassing for family members and confusing for the person experiencing it.
Trouble with Abstract Thinking
Managing finances or understanding metaphors might become challenging. A person might struggle to balance a checkbook or grasp the meaning of sayings like “it’s raining cats and dogs.” This difficulty with abstract concepts can affect many areas of life, from handling money to following complex instructions.
Changes in Handwriting
A person’s handwriting might change in unexpected ways. It could become smaller, messier, or even change style completely. They might also start having trouble staying within the lines or spacing words properly. This change is due to the brain’s difficulty in coordinating fine motor skills and spatial awareness.
Inability to Retrace Steps
Someone with dementia might get lost in familiar places. They may not be able to retrace their steps or remember how they got somewhere. This isn’t just about forgetting directions – it’s a deeper confusion about their surroundings. It can be scary for the person and worrying for their loved ones.
Decreased Sense of Smell
A diminishing sense of smell can be an early sign of cognitive decline. The person might not notice familiar scents or have trouble identifying common smells. This change is often subtle and might be noticed by family members before the person themselves. It’s linked to the parts of the brain affected in the early stages of some types of dementia.
Showering with Clothes On
In some cases, a person with dementia might shower or bathe while still wearing clothes. This isn’t about being forgetful—it’s a sign of confusion about the steps involved in personal care. They might not realize they need to undress first or might forget halfway through the process. This behavior can be distressing for both the person and their caregivers.
21 Mistakes That Place Seniors Living Alone At Risk
21 Mistakes That Place Seniors Living Alone At Risk
13 Things Women Should Let Go Of After Reaching 50
