Experts at Care UK have flagged that being unable to make decisions could be an early indicator of dementia, stressing a number of the disease’s initial symptoms. Many might overlook such early symptoms as mere consequences of getting older; however, they could herald a deeper health issue.

It is critical to have these evaluated without delay, as catching the disease early can massively improve life through medication, therapies, and support systems. Fresh figures from Care UK have disclosed that over half of individuals with a family member diagnosed with dementia (62%) initially mistook their warning signs for simple effects of ageing. In light of this, they’re shedding light on various early indicators of the affliction.

Suzanne Mumford, who heads up Dementia and Lifestyle at Care UK, which has more than 150 resident homes nationally, emphasises that hesitancy in decision-making might be amongst the earliest signs of the brain-wasting disorder.

Suzanne said: “As people get older, they naturally slow down on their decision-making.

“However, when a person can’t make a decision, even though it’s been approached with them on several occasions and explained thoroughly and clearly, then maybe it’s time to start wondering whether they’re retaining that information and whether they actually do have a memory problem.”

This is a symptom that could present on its own or along with a number of others, Suzanne added: “Other early symptoms may be difficult to identify, and these can vary widely from person to person.

“However, there are specific patterns of cognitive decline and behaviour changes that may indicate dementia in its early stages.”

Difficulty planning or solving problems

When in the early stages of dementia, a person may struggle with tasks that involve concentration, such as following a sequence of instructions or making decisions.

Suzanne stated: “This could mean struggling to follow recipes or keeping track of bills, trouble completing routine activities like driving to a familiar location, managing a work project, or perhaps not remembering how to play a favourite game.”

Misinterpreting visuals

An often-overlooked symptom of dementia is the incorrect interpretation of visual information. Affected persons might perceive a shadow as a hole or become perplexed by images in mirrors or water.

They might also have trouble with tasks involving visual judgement, such as reading or estimating distance and differentiating between colours and contrasts.

Personality changes

According to Suzanne: “Some people may behave in more unexpected ways, including using words they normally wouldn’t, such as swearing or losing their filter, becoming frustrated or angry more easily, showing more sexualised behaviours or changing what or how they like to eat or drink.

“For some, changes in behaviour may never happen. For others, changes may develop slowly, or very suddenly – usually as a response to changes in circumstances including infection or pain.

“It may indicate dementia if a loved one begins making choices that don’t match their personal, cultural or religious beliefs.”

Other signs

More familiar warning signs of dementia include difficulty finding the right words, confusion and memory loss, and frequently misplacing items.

Suzanne said: “If you or someone you know is experiencing several of these symptoms, it’s important to seek a professional evaluation.

“Early detection and diagnosis can lead to better management, access to therapies and planning for future care.”