Early Warning Signs of Dementia: Symptoms and Treatment

Early warning signs of dementia include persistent forgetfulness, confusion with familiar tasks, and mood changes that disrupt daily functioning, while evidence-based therapeutic interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy and cognitive stimulation therapy help individuals and families manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.

Worried about memory changes or wondering if they signal something more serious? Dementia symptoms can be frightening to navigate alone, but understanding early warning signs and therapeutic support options can provide clarity and hope.

Do I Have Dementia? Early Warning Signs And Treatment Options

“Do I have dementia?” If you’re approaching older adulthood or have experienced symptoms like forgetfulness, this question may have crossed your mind.

Dementia can refer to a group of illnesses involving progressive memory loss, communication challenges, and mood changes. At the beginning, however, its symptoms are often subtler. Understanding what early-stage dementia looks like may make it easier to get help when you need it, start treatment, and take steps to protect your mental health. Working with a licensed clinical social worker may provide valuable support throughout this journey.

What is dementia?

Dementia itself isn’t a specific illness. Rather, it can be seen as an umbrella term that includes several different illnesses.

Types of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease

Types of dementia include the following:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Lewy body dementia
• Vascular dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia
• Mixed dementia

Each of these illnesses usually has slightly different causes. For example, Alzheimer’s disease is typically caused by a buildup of plaque in the brain, while vascular dementia can be caused by issues with blood flow to the brain. That said, all types of dementia can involve changes in the ways people think, act, and express themselves.

As the disease progresses, these changes tend to become more severe. Over time, people with dementia may have a harder time remembering information, communicating, and functioning in daily life. As a result, later-stage dementia patients often need full-time care.

Dementia is often associated with older age, but it is not inevitable. According to the CDC, many older adults never develop dementia.

Do I have dementia-related memory loss? Exploring early dementia symptoms

People in the early stages of dementia may not always be aware that something is wrong. However, understanding the early warning signs may make it easier for you and your loved ones to tell if what you’re experiencing is a natural part of aging or something more concerning.

Early dementia symptoms

The early symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the person and their type of dementia. That said, you may want to take note if you notice that:

• You get lost in familiar places.
• You forget simple words or the names of people you know well.
• You struggle to complete familiar tasks like paying bills, washing dishes, doing laundry, or making dinner.
• You lose interest in activities and relationships you used to enjoy.
• You find it harder to follow conversations.
• You forget current events or often lose track of the date and time.
• You find it hard to make plans and solve problems.
• You often feel anxious or depressed.
• Your loved ones notice changes in your behavior or personality.
• People are concerned that you’re using poor judgment when making important decisions.
• People are concerned that you aren’t looking after your own health or hygiene.

Keep in mind that some mental changes can be a natural part of the aging process and might not always be causes for concern. For example, as you age, you might occasionally forget appointments or have trouble finding the right word once in a while. These might not represent dementia memory loss.

Do I have dementia? Early warning signs of dementia-related memory loss

Signs of dementia can start out subtle, but they can still be disruptive enough to get in the way of daily life. A person with early-stage dementia might have noticeable challenges with routine tasks like driving, following conversations, or cleaning the house. If you notice a pattern of forgetfulness, confusion, or trouble functioning, this may be a warning sign.

Getting help for early-stage dementia and Alzheimer’s disease

If you notice possible dementia symptoms in yourself or a loved one, you may want to start by talking to a doctor. Getting an early diagnosis may be the first step toward managing it and taking steps to support your mental and physical health. Several medications may help slow the progress of dementia and reduce the intensity of its symptoms. These must be prescribed and monitored by a doctor and can include the following:

Antidepressants

Antidepressants may help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety, which can be common among people with dementia. These medications usually work by changing levels of chemicals in the brain.

Cholinesterase inhibitors

These medications may be helpful for people with certain types of early- or mid-stage dementia. They normally work by increasing levels of brain chemicals that support memory and learning, which may slow the progression of the illness.

Memantine

Memantine can lower the brain’s glutamate levels. Having too much glutamate can negatively affect memory, which is why memantine may help people with later-stage dementia.

Antipsychotics

Some people with dementia may experience hallucinations or delusions. Hallucinations can refer to seeing, hearing, or feeling something that isn’t there, while delusions can be thought of as false beliefs that can’t be changed. Antipsychotic medications may reduce these symptoms.

Benefits of early dementia diagnosis

Getting an early dementia diagnosis may also empower you to take action to preserve your health and mental skills. Certain lifestyle changes may slow the progression of dementia. For example, in a 2018 study, researchers studied the physical activity levels of 934 Alzheimer’s patients, following up with them each year. Those who were more physically active usually had a slower disease progression.

Similarly, according to the National Institute on Aging, staying socially and mentally active may support brain health and cognitive function as individuals age.

Therapeutic approaches for dementia support

Certain types of therapy may also have benefits for people with dementia:

Cognitive stimulation therapy

This is a form of therapy that often uses discussions, games, puzzles, and other activities to boost memory, problem-solving, and language skills. At ReachLink, our licensed clinical social workers can facilitate these activities in a supportive telehealth environment.

Cognitive rehabilitation

This type of therapy generally focuses on identifying and sharpening specific skills for functioning in daily life, such as getting dressed, having conversations, or using a computer. Our clinical social workers can help develop personalized strategies for maintaining independence.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

This form of therapy typically aims to help people change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. It may be helpful for easing symptoms of depression and anxiety in people with dementia. It may also help people with a recent dementia diagnosis manage feelings of stress. ReachLink’s licensed clinical social workers are trained in evidence-based CBT approaches.

These types of therapy, among others, may be useful for people with dementia and their loved ones. However, finding accessible therapy can be challenging. Mental Health America reports that as of 2023, most American adults with unmet mental healthcare needs didn’t get care because of the associated costs.

Telehealth therapy support

Support may be more accessible through telehealth therapy. ReachLink offers professional therapy with licensed clinical social workers through secure video sessions, making it easier for individuals with mobility or transportation challenges to receive consistent care. Our platform is designed to be user-friendly for older adults, with simple navigation and clear video quality.

Family support and education

At ReachLink, we recognize that dementia affects not just individuals but entire families. Our licensed clinical social workers provide valuable support for family members and caregivers through:

• Education about dementia progression and management
• Strategies for effective communication with loved ones experiencing cognitive decline
• Stress management techniques for caregivers
• Guidance on creating supportive home environments
• Resources for additional community support

Effectiveness of telehealth therapy

Internet-based therapy can successfully address many of the emotional challenges that often affect people with dementia and their caregivers. In a 2017 review, researchers looked at data from 373 studies of online cognitive behavioral therapy treatments. They found that online therapy could be an effective treatment for depression and other mental health concerns.

Takeaway

Dementia typically refers to a group of progressive illnesses that involve memory loss, trouble communicating, and other symptoms. These symptoms tend to be subtle in the early stages. Early on, a person with dementia might experience forgetfulness, confusion, or mood changes. They might also lose interest in activities, struggle to remember words, or make poor decisions. Symptoms like these may not always be a cause for concern. However, if you notice them in yourself or someone else, you might want to talk to a doctor. Diagnosing dementia early can be the first step toward starting treatment and supporting brain health. ReachLink’s telehealth therapy services can provide valuable support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers, offering evidence-based therapeutic approaches delivered by licensed clinical social workers in the comfort and convenience of your own home.

FAQ

• How can therapy help families cope with early dementia symptoms?

  Family therapy provides essential support by helping family members understand behavioral changes, develop effective communication strategies, and process emotional challenges. Therapists can teach coping mechanisms for managing difficult situations and help families create structured routines that support both the individual and caregivers.

• When should someone seek therapy support after noticing memory problems?

  Therapy support is beneficial as soon as memory concerns begin affecting daily life or relationships. Early intervention helps individuals and families develop healthy coping strategies, address anxiety or depression related to cognitive changes, and establish support systems before symptoms progress.

• What therapeutic approaches help manage anxiety related to cognitive decline?

  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for managing anxiety about memory loss. Therapists help individuals identify negative thought patterns, develop relaxation techniques, and create practical strategies for managing daily challenges. Mindfulness-based approaches can also reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.

• How can therapy address behavioral changes in early dementia?

  Behavioral therapy focuses on identifying triggers for challenging behaviors and developing alternative responses. Therapists work with individuals and families to create structured environments, establish consistent routines, and implement positive reinforcement strategies that can reduce agitation and improve quality of life.

• What role does counseling play in dementia care planning?

  Counseling helps families navigate difficult decisions about care arrangements, financial planning, and future needs. Therapists provide emotional support during the planning process, facilitate family discussions about preferences and values, and help establish clear communication channels between family members and healthcare providers.