Signs of Dementia

When is Memory Loss a Sign of Dementia?

While it's normal to have some memory loss as we age, there are signs of greater concern that are related to dementia:^[5]

• Asking the same question over and over again.
• Difficulty doing familiar tasks such as a cooking a favorite meal.
• Problems with language such as a forgetting simple words or using words incorrectly.
• Problems with place and time including getting lost on a familiar street or not remembering what day it is.
• Poor judgment such as forgetting to put on a coat when it's cold outside.
• Misplacing things such as putting a wristwatch in a sugar bowl.
• Mood changes. Everyone has mood changes, but for people with dementia they are more rapid.
• Personality changes such as being irritable, suspicious or fearful.
• Loss of initiative or interest. People with dementia may become very passive. They may not want to go out or see people.