1.1.1 Symptoms of Dementia

Memory loss is the dementia symptom that receives the most attention, but there are others. The following are some symptoms of dementia:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty paying attention
• Finding it challenging to complete routine daily duties, such as following a conversation or knowing what to do next
• Confusion over the date and time
• Mood swings
• Repeating questions
• Acting impulsively
• Hallucinating or experiencing delusions
• Wandering and getting lost
• Poor judgment
• Depression and anxiety.

These symptoms are mild initially, so family members and friends might not notice or take them seriously. However, in most circumstances, they will worsen and affect the person and the people around them over time. At an earlier stage of dementia, a doctor may occasionally identify a patient with “mild cognitive impairment” (MCI) instead of “dementia.”