Dementia is a word many families fear, but recognising the signs early can make a real difference in how your loved one is supported. At Wardside House, we understand how emotional and confusing this time can be. This guide is here to help you spot the early signs of dementia and take the first steps with confidence and care.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is not a specific disease, but a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life.

The most common type is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are others, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.

10 Early Signs of Dementia to Watch For:

Everyone forgets things now and then—but dementia symptoms are more persistent and noticeable. Here are ten common signs to look out for:

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or asking the same question repeatedly.

2. Difficulty with Familiar Tasks

Struggling to follow a recipe, use a household appliance, or get lost on a familiar route.

3. Problems with Language

Forgetting words, repeating themselves, or struggling to follow or join a conversation.

4. Confusion with Time or Place

Losing track of dates, seasons, or forgetting where they are or how they got there.

5. Poor Judgement

Wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather, giving away large amounts of money, or making unusual purchases.

6. Withdrawal from Social Activities

Avoiding hobbies, work, or socialising due to confusion, embarrassment, or fatigue.

7. Mood and Personality Changes

Becoming unusually anxious, irritable, suspicious, or easily upset—especially in new environments.

8. Misplacing Items

Putting things in unusual places—like a watch in the fridge—and being unable to retrace steps.

9. Trouble Understanding Visual Images

Difficulty reading, judging distance, or recognising familiar faces and objects.

10. Struggling to Plan or Solve Problems

Finding it hard to concentrate, manage finances, or follow a plan like a shopping list.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you're seeing some of these behaviours in someone you love:

1. Don’t panic.
   These symptoms don’t always mean dementia. They could be caused by stress, depression, medication, or other health issues.

2. Encourage a GP visit.
   A professional assessment can lead to early diagnosis, which means better support and planning.

3. Keep a journal.
   Note specific examples, dates, and changes in behaviour. This helps healthcare professionals make informed decisions.

Support for Families at Wardside House

At Wardside House, we understand how unsettling it can be to watch someone you love go through these changes. Our team is trained in dementia care and offers:

• Gentle, respectful support tailored to each individual

• A calm and familiar environment to ease anxiety

• Activities designed to support memory, independence, and joy

Whether you’re considering care now or just gathering information, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Let’s Talk

If you’re worried about a loved one and want to understand more about dementia care, reach out to us for a friendly, no-pressure chat.

You are not alone—and with the right support, you and your loved one can face the future with greater clarity and comfort.