As families come together for Christmas, health experts are urging people to be alert to certain ‘warning’ signs that could signify serious health issues. While these symptoms might seem minor, the NHS underscores the importance of consulting a GP for a professional medical assessment.

In a recent announcement, the NHS highlighted, “During this festive season, be aware of dementia symptoms such as irritability, forgetfulness, difficulty in following conversations, or confusion about time and place. If you notice these signs in a loved one, encourage them to see their GP for evaluation.”

Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, which is characterized by progressive brain deterioration. Statistics from the NHS show that over 944,000 people in the UK are affected by dementia, impacting one in every 11 individuals over the age of 65.

The symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the specific type but often include memory issues, disorientation, mood changes, and difficulties with communication or everyday tasks. While some may dismiss these changes as a ‘normal part of aging,’ medical experts stress that this is generally not the case.

NHS guidelines clarify: “These symptoms might not be immediately noticeable to you or those around you and may not be taken seriously for some time. In some cases, these symptoms may remain stable, but for others, they could progress to dementia.”

“Dementia is not a natural aspect of aging. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a GP sooner rather than later if you have concerns about memory issues or other symptoms,” advises the NHS.

In serious cases, dementia in family members may lead to potentially hazardous situations that could be spotted throughout the home. For example, if a relative now believes it’s ‘acceptable’ to place items like metal containers in the microwave or uncooked meat in a cabinet, it could prove particularly hazardous.

This was outlined by Dr Jane Pritchard, Admiral Nurse for The Good Care Group, who previously told the Mirror: “If you start to see the electric kettle being placed on the stove, tin foil or metallic dishes in the microwave or plastic being placed into the oven, these are more dangerous signs that an early assessment is needed.

“…It’s clear their awareness and forgetfulness are starting to signal a warning sign.” At the time, she also added: “We all misplace things occasionally, but in the early stages of dementia, you might find the TV remote in the oven, milk in the cupboard, or food tucked into a bedside drawer.

“There could also be disorganisation, such as drinking glasses being placed in the washing-up bowl with the pots and pans. Cupboards that have been designated for particular items for years might suddenly change. These unusual behaviours can be cause for concern.”

If you’re concerned about your own symptoms or suspect that someone you know might have dementia, it’s crucial to book a GP appointment. Although there is no cure for dementia, treatments are available to help manage its symptoms.

Potential symptoms of dementia

Although signs of dementia can vary depending on the type, common symptoms during its onset may include:

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

For more information, head to the NHS website.