Experts have warned of a common early symptom of dementia that – if noticed – could help individuals catch the disease early and slow its progression.
More than 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, says the World Health Organisation and the NHS estimates at least 944,000 people in the UK are suffering from the condition.
Dementia, which has about 200 types including Alzheimer’s, mainly affects people later in life with one in 11 people in the UK over 65 affected.
It impacts a person’s cognitive abilities like memory, thinking, problem-solving, language and behaviour. Currently, there is no cure for dementia but the decline can be slowed.
Several warning signs could indicate the onset of dementia and catching the disease early can sometimes help slow the degeneration down by starting treatment as early as possible.
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One sign highlighted by the Alzheimer’s Society involves day-to-day memory. The society said that while anyone can temporarily misplace a wallet or keys, a person living with dementia may put things in inappropriate places, like an iron in the freezer or a wristwatch in the sugar bowl.
Early signs of dementia could include becoming disorientated with time and space, and even getting lost on a familiar street. People suffering with dementia may also forget how to carry out typical routines like preparing meals or getting dressed.
Dr Richard Restak, a dementia expert, said that being unable to carry out “purposeful and highly practised actions, such as brushing teeth, despite normal muscle strength and tone” could indicate apraxia, one of the “four impairments” he identifies in Alzheimer’s patients.
Writing in his book How To Prevent Dementia, he added: “A person with apraxia may be able to recognise and even name a toothbrush and toothpaste but may be unable to carry out the act (praxis) of squeezing the toothpaste onto the toothbrush.”
If you’re worried about your memory or think you might have dementia, it’s a good idea to book an appointment with your GP.
If you’re concerned about someone else’s symptoms, encourage them to make an appointment and perhaps suggest going with them.
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