A specialist has highlighted that a potential early symptom of dementia might be noticeable when an individual is watching television. This subtle behavior shift, as pointed out by a medical expert, could be one of the initial signs indicating that a family member may be experiencing the onset of this syndrome.

Dementia constitutes a syndrome characterized by the progressive deterioration of brain functions. In the UK, almost one million individuals are currently affected by this condition, with numbers expected to rise considerably as the population ages.

While many are familiar with the more noticeable symptoms of dementia, there are other, more subdued indicators that can easily go unnoticed.

Consultant neurologist Dr. Tim Rittman draws attention to the challenge of distinguishing early-stage dementia from other medical conditions.

In an article for Alzheimer’s Research UK, he stated, “In its early stages, dementia is difficult to differentiate from other conditions. This makes it challenging to determine the level of concern if you perceive someone behaving differently than before. This confusion is understandable, as many of us have limited knowledge about the condition.”

According to a YouGov survey, less than half of the participants (49%) could identify “memory loss” as a symptom of dementia. Only 12% of the 2,162 individuals surveyed were aware that dementia leads to a loss of independence, while nearly a quarter (22%) admitted to having no knowledge about how the condition impacts individuals.

Dr Rittman continued: “It’s a surprising finding, given how dementia will impact so many of us”. He stressed the need to increase public understanding of dementia’s early warning signs, stating: “It is important, then, to raise awareness of early signs of dementia so people with symptoms can be referred to a memory clinic for a full assessment and an accurate, timely diagnosis.”

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He continued by noting that receiving a diagnosis early enables people and their loved ones to make future arrangements, obtain suitable care and assistance, and potentially take part in clinical studies. Dr Rittman then outlined several crucial warning signs worth monitoring, noting: “When it first starts, dementia’s signs and symptoms are often mild and not that easy to spot.”

He pointed out that slight memory lapses, alterations in how things are perceived or difficulties with speech might signal an underlying issue. Nevertheless, he warned: “It’s really important to know that these kinds of symptoms can have other causes, such as low mood, or the side-effects of medications. But they could be early signs of dementia.”

In Dr Rittman’s view, memory and cognitive difficulties, which are typical dementia symptoms, may first become apparent during everyday activities such as watching television. Individuals might find themselves unable to keep track of the plot in a programme they usually enjoy, describing it as “difficult to follow”.

He explained: “Early on forgetfulness could be mild, affecting memory for places or things that have happened in the past. You may notice someone asking the same question in quick succession, or struggling to remember the name of objects around the house.

“People may find they struggle to concentrate on daily tasks, or they may find following the storyline of a TV programme difficult for example.”

The NHS lists other common signs of dementia, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, getting muddled in daily tasks, struggling to follow conversations or recall words, confusion over time and place, and sudden mood swings. If you observe these symptoms in a loved one, it’s recommended to consult their GP for advice.