- Losing track of dates, seasons, or passage of time
- Forgetting where they are or how they got there
- Difficulty understanding future/past events
4. Trouble Understanding Visual Images or Spatial Relationships
- Vision problems not due to eye disease: trouble reading, judging distance, or determining color/contrast
- May cause issues with driving
5. New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing
- Stopping mid-sentence, struggling to join conversations
- Repeating themselves or substituting odd words (“that thing for my foot” instead of “shoe”)
- Trouble finding the right word
6. Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
- Putting items in unusual places (keys in the fridge, wallet in the oven)
- Accusing others of stealing when unable to retrace steps
- This occurs more frequently over time
7. Decreased or Poor Judgment
- Giving away large sums of money to telemarketers
- Paying less attention to grooming or hygiene
- Making uncharacteristic decisions
8. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities
- Pulling back from hobbies, social engagements, or sports
- Difficulty keeping up with conversations or rules of games
- Feeling overwhelmed or embarrassed by changes
9. Changes in Mood or Personality
- Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious
- Easily upset at home, work, or in unfamiliar settings
- Uncharacteristic irritability or aggression
10. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks
- Trouble driving to a known location, managing a budget, or remembering rules of a favorite game
- Needs help with tasks once done independently
❤️ Important Notes
- These signs don’t always mean dementia—they can also stem from vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, depression, medication side effects, or infections.
- BUT: Early diagnosis matters. Some causes are treatable—and even in Alzheimer’s, early intervention can slow progression and improve quality of life.
- Don’t wait: Memory clinics and neurologists offer cognitive screenings that take 30–60 minutes.
✅ What You Can Do Today
- Track symptoms: Note frequency, severity, and impact.
- Schedule a check-up: Start with a primary care doctor—they’ll refer you if needed.
- Stay proactive: Brain-healthy habits (exercise, sleep, social connection, Mediterranean diet) support cognitive resilience at any age.
“Forgetfulness happens. But when it starts stealing someone’s ability to live fully—that’s when we listen closely.” 💛
If you’re concerned, trust your gut. Seeking answers isn’t alarmist—it’s an act of love and care.