1.2. Describe the signs and symptoms of dementia

This guide will help you answer 1.2. Describe the signs and symptoms of dementia.

Dementia is a progressive condition that affects the brain. It has an impact on memory, thinking, and communication skills. Symptoms vary depending on the type of dementia and its progression. It is important to recognise these signs to support individuals effectively.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is not a single disease. It is a broad term for symptoms that affect the brain’s function. The common types of dementia are:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Vascular dementia
• Lewy body dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia

These types differ in their cause and the specific areas of the brain they affect. While dementia mainly affects older adults, younger people can also experience it, which is known as young-onset dementia.

Memory Loss

Memory loss is often the first and most noticeable symptom of dementia. It may start as mild forgetfulness and progress over time to severe memory problems. Signs include:

• Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations
• Forgetting dates, appointments, or names
• Frequently misplacing items

Memory loss can affect a person’s independence. They may struggle to manage everyday tasks like shopping, cooking, or paying bills.

Difficulty with Communication

Dementia can cause changes in the ability to communicate. People may have trouble finding the right words or following a conversation. Signs include:

• Using incorrect words or repeating phrases
• Problems understanding others or answering questions
• Difficulty with reading and writing

This symptom can lead to frustration for the person and those around them.

Problems with Thinking and Reasoning

Dementia affects the way people process information. They may struggle with problem-solving or making decisions. Common signs are:

• Difficulty planning or organising tasks
• Inability to follow complex instructions
• Trouble with simple calculations, such as counting money

These changes can disrupt daily life. A person may need help managing their activities and responsibilities.

Disorientation

People with dementia may become disoriented, meaning they get confused about time, place, or identity. Signs of disorientation include:

• Losing track of the day, date, or time of year
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Confusion about where they are or why they are there

Disorientation can increase the risk of accidents or wandering.

Mood Changes

Dementia can cause sudden or severe changes in mood. People may become irritable, anxious, or withdrawn. Common indicators include:

• Unexplained sadness or depression
• Increased aggression or frustration
• Reduced interest in hobbies or social activities

These mood changes can deeply affect relationships and emotional well-being.

Changes in Behaviour

Behavioural changes are another common symptom of dementia. People may act differently than they used to. Examples include:

• Performing repetitive actions or pacing
• Becoming overly suspicious or paranoid
• Acting out or saying inappropriate things

These behaviours may be caused by confusion or frustration and can be challenging for carers to manage.

Loss of Skills

A person with dementia may gradually lose skills they once had. This includes physical abilities, hobbies, and personal care tasks. Signs include:

• Struggling with cooking or using kitchen tools
• Difficulty dressing, grooming, or bathing independently
• Forgetting how to operate devices like phones or televisions

These changes can increase dependency on carers.

Trouble with Vision and Perception

Dementia can affect a person’s vision and perception. This is more common with certain types, such as Lewy body dementia. Symptoms include:

• Difficulty judging distances or spatial awareness
• Struggles with recognising faces or objects
• Hallucinations—seeing or hearing things that aren’t there

This can increase the risk of falls or accidents.

Sleep Problems

Dementia often affects sleep patterns. People may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Other signs include:

• Excessive sleeping during the day
• Restlessness or waking frequently at night
• Sleepwalking or engaging in activities during the night

Sleep problems can worsen confusion and fatigue.

Health Issues Related to Dementia

In advanced stages, dementia can cause physical health problems. Symptoms may include:

• Weight loss due to forgetting to eat or losing appetite
• Poor hygiene from inability to care for oneself
• Increased risk of infections or other illnesses

These issues often need medical intervention or care support.

Types of Dementia and Unique Symptoms

Different types of dementia may have unique signs. For instance:

• Alzheimer’s disease is marked by severe memory loss and difficulty with complex tasks.
• Vascular dementia may involve sudden weakness, slurred speech, or confusion due to strokes or poor blood flow.
• Lewy body dementia often causes stiffness, tremors, and hallucinations.
• Frontotemporal dementia may primarily affect behaviour and personality, leading to impulsive or inappropriate actions.

Understanding these differences helps to provide tailored support.

What Triggers or Worsens Symptoms?

Certain factors can worsen symptoms of dementia, even temporarily. These include:

• Stress or anxiety
• Lack of sleep
• Other illnesses, like urinary tract infections
• Alcohol or medication side effects

Recognising these triggers is important for managing symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the signs and symptoms of dementia is key to identifying and supporting individuals affected by it. Symptoms can vary widely and impact memory, communication, behaviour, and physical health. Recognising early signs and changes helps carers provide appropriate care and create a safe environment. Knowledge about unique symptoms for different types of dementia can improve personalised care strategies and communication.