Dementia is a cognitive issue that can affect the brain in many ways. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, and it typically affects aging people.  However, brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, and Lewy body dementia are also common types. Symptoms of dementia tend to escalate over time, so it’s good to get help as early as possible, and you should also consider great medical alert systems, such as medic alert bracelets. For many patients and loved ones, identifying signs of dementia can be a challenge.  Below, find some of the common early signs of dementia to watch out for.

1. Confusion about time and place
This symptom generally occurs in later stage dementia patients, who become confused about times and places. This kind of confusion occurs when dementia affects part of the brain medical experts refer to as the dorsolateral prefrontal right cortex. This may lead to issues with directions to once familiar places or even finding the way home

2. Challenges understanding visual information
Another common symptom of dementia occurs when patients forget the name of common objects or even people. This can also affect peripheral vision, and cause challenges with depth perception, resulting in slips or falls.

3. Memory loss
This problem occurs as the part of the brain responsible for retrieving and managing memories deteriorates. The compromised brain functions might lead to an increased frequency of misplacing personal items. Left unchecked, the memory loss can lead to further or worsening symptoms

4. Speech issues
Memory loss can lead to a variety of speech issues. These can include difficulties with naming, forming sentences, and finding words for items. Dementia affects the part of the brain medical experts call the Broca’s area, which is the area responsible for converting ideas into words

5. Poor judgement Issues
with judgement and impulse control are also common with several types of dementia. This may occur as the disease progresses, leading to behavior such as risky driving or dressing inappropriately for the weather. As the cerebrum of the brain is affected by dementia, problems with impulse control and problem solving may progress.

Remember that you or a loved one has many medical options when it comes to combating and managing the effects of dementia. The ability to identify this health issue early is vital in treatment and management solutions. Consult with a medical professional as soon as you notice any of the above signs and symptoms. Your health care provider may recommend certain medications, therapies, supplements, or even a top senior assisted living care near you for support.