To spot dementia early, watch for subtle signs such as mild forgetfulness, changes in communication (e.g., trouble finding words or putting sentences together), difficulty with planning and problem-solving, confusion about time and place, mood changes like anxiety or low mood, and changes in behavior or personality like loss of empathy or increased anger. These symptoms often develop gradually and can be noticed by the person or people around them. Early warning signs also include having trouble doing familiar tasks, misplacing things, and showing poor judgment or spatial skills. If several of these signs are observed, it's important to consult a doctor for a complete assessment as early diagnosis allows better management and treatment options.
To reduce dementia risk by about half, lifestyle changes are crucial. These include:
- Keeping physically active (e.g., exercising 30 minutes daily)
- Eating a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet
- Keeping the mind sharp through learning new skills or playing brain-stimulating games
- Monitoring and managing cardiovascular health, including blood pressure and cholesterol
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption (less than 14 units per week)
- Maintaining good hearing and vision health
- Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking
Research shows that nearly half of dementia risk is modifiable through such preventive measures. Early interventions during the "stealth" phase of dementia may delay or even prevent progression. Close attention to heart health directly benefits brain health.
In summary, early recognition of mild cognitive and behavioral changes paired with lifestyle modifications focusing on brain and heart health can help detect dementia early and reduce the risk by about half. Consulting healthcare providers promptly when early signs are noticed is also important for timely intervention.
