In an exclusive chat to Express.co.uk, Dr John Abroon – a board-certified primary care physician – detailed the early symptoms of dementia. Whether you are concerned about your own cognitive abilities, a family member’s or friend, there can be signs of the brain condition in the earliest of stages. 

“Difficulty in handling daily tasks, such as shopping independently, could be an early symptom of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia,” said Dr John. This may show up as confusion with sorting out the correct change when paying for an item while shopping. “This difficulty is often linked to impairments in planning, organising, and executing tasks, which can affect even commonplace activities.”

Dr John said these issues are a “clear signal” that a doctor’s appointment is warranted.

“Pay closer attention to daily functioning… because it can start subtly,” Dr John advised. 

The gradual onset of dementia tends to be overlooked until the problems become too obvious in everyday life. 

“Increasing awareness is vital,” said Dr John, which is why he wants to raise awareness about the brain disease.

He said: “The more symptoms we observe – say, memory lapses combined with changes in visual or spatial perceptions – the stronger the likelihood of dementia. It’s been my experience that a mixture of symptoms should prompt an evaluation.”

Speaking to a doctor, especially one specialised in neurology, could kick-start a diagnosis and beneficial treatment plan.

Dr John explained: “In my practice, I’ve seen the benefits of addressing these concerns early on. It often provides the opportunity to manage the condition more effectively with appropriate lifestyle adjustments and medications.”

Dr John stated: “While dementia progresses differently for everyone, on average, it can take several years from the first noticeable symptoms to more severe stages.

“Modern medications can delay worsening symptoms for a period, often extending quality of life for months, sometimes years.

“Coupled with preventive care strategies, these treatments offer real hope to patients and families looking to manage heart and brain health over the long term.”

Dementia symptoms

As listed by the NHS, early dementia symptoms can include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty concentrating
• Finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping
• Struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
• Being confused about time and place
• Mood changes

Dementia symptoms specific to Alzheimer’s disease include:

• Memory problems, such as regularly forgetting recent events, names and faces
• Asking questions repetitively
• Increasing difficulties with tasks and activities that require organisation and planning
• Becoming confused in unfamiliar environments
• Difficulty finding the right words
• Difficulty with numbers and/or handling money in shops
• Becoming more withdrawn or anxious