Early Signs of Dementia and Alzheimer’s: How to Spot Changes in Yourself or a Loved One

Memory slips, repeating a question, or losing your keys can be unsettling—especially if you’ve seen dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in your family. Many people quietly wonder: “Is this normal aging, or is it something more?”

Recognizing the early signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s can feel intimidating, but it can also be empowering. Understanding what to look for helps you:

• Notice meaningful changes sooner
• Open calm, constructive conversations with loved ones
• Seek professional evaluation when appropriate
• Plan ahead and reduce uncertainty

This guide walks through the most common early signs, explains how they may look in everyday life, and offers practical steps for what to do if you’re concerned—without diagnosing, labeling, or jumping to conclusions.

What Dementia and Alzheimer’s Actually Are

Before diving into early symptoms, it helps to be clear on what these terms mean.

Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference?

• Dementia is a general term for changes in thinking, memory, and behavior that significantly affect daily life. It’s not one disease but a group of symptoms caused by various conditions.
• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It involves gradual changes in certain brain areas that affect memory, thinking, and behavior over time.

Other conditions can also lead to dementia-like symptoms, including:

• Vascular dementia
• Lewy body dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia
• Certain infections, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, and more (some of which can be partially reversible when treated)

This is one key reason it’s important not to assume dementia. Many health issues unrelated to Alzheimer’s can mimic similar symptoms.

Normal Aging vs. Early Signs of Dementia

Not every memory lapse or “senior moment” points to dementia. Normal aging usually involves:

• Occasionally forgetting names but remembering later
• Misplacing items from time to time
• Needing more time to learn new technology or information
• Sometimes searching for the right word

With dementia, changes are usually:

• More frequent
• More disruptive to everyday tasks
• Noticeable to others, not just you

Here’s a simple comparison:

The next sections break down the key early signs in more detail.

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

Mild forgetfulness is common. The concern arises when memory problems make daily life harder.

What This Can Look Like

• Repeating the same question or story during a conversation
• Relying more heavily on notes, reminders, or other people for things they previously managed alone
• Forgetting important recent events (a visit, a conversation, an appointment)
• Asking the same person for the same basic information several times in one day

In early Alzheimer’s disease, short-term memory (recent conversations or events) is more affected than long-term memories from many years ago. Someone might clearly recall childhood experiences yet forget what they ate for lunch or who visited the day before.

👉 Key point: Occasional forgetfulness can be normal; repeatedly forgetting the same recent information and not recalling it later is more concerning.

2. Difficulty Planning, Problem-Solving, or Managing Tasks

Early dementia often affects the brain’s executive functions—the mental skills we use to plan, organize, and work through problems.

Everyday Examples

• Struggling to follow a familiar recipe or repeatedly losing track of steps
• Having unusual difficulty balancing a checkbook, paying bills, or tracking expenses
• Taking much longer than usual to plan a simple outing
• Mixing up steps when completing tasks (e.g., dressing out of order, forgetting to turn off the stove)

Sometimes, a person who used to manage complex tasks—like organizing family events or handling household finances—starts to avoiding them, pass them to someone else, or make frequent errors.

3. Challenges with Familiar Tasks

In early dementia, it may become harder to complete routine activities that used to be automatic.

Possible Signs

• Trouble operating a familiar microwave, phone, TV remote, or computer
• Getting confused about how to drive to a frequently visited location
• Forgetting rules of a favorite card game or hobby
• Needing help with basic tasks at work that never used to be a problem

Rather than not knowing how to do something at all, the person may forget part of the process, get stuck mid-task, or feel unusually overwhelmed by it.

4. Confusion About Time or Place

Most people occasionally lose track of the date. With dementia, this confusion tends to be more pronounced and persistent.

How It May Show Up

• Not knowing what day, month, or even year it is—and struggling to reorient even with reminders
• Feeling unsure where they are, why they are there, or how they got there
• Thinking they are at a different stage of life (for example, talking as if they still have young children at home)
• Becoming distressed or anxious in unfamiliar environments

Some people may wander or get lost, even in areas that used to be familiar. This can be especially concerning when it happens while walking, driving, or using public transport.

5. Trouble Understanding Visual Images or Spatial Relationships

In some types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, visual and spatial abilities can change early on.

Everyday Clues

• Difficulty reading, even when vision has not changed significantly
• Trouble judging distances or navigating steps and curbs
• Bumping into furniture or door frames more often
• Confusion when reaching for objects (misjudging how far away they are)
• Problems with parking or staying in the lane while driving

These changes are not the same as needing glasses. They relate more to the brain’s interpretation of visual information, not just eyesight itself.

6. Problems with Words, Speaking, or Writing

Language changes are another common early sign.

Possible Early Language Changes

• Struggling to find the right words and using vague substitutes instead
• Stopping mid-sentence, unsure how to continue
• Repeating the same word or phrase within a short time
• Having more difficulty following conversations, especially in groups
• Writing becoming more disorganized or harder to follow

You might notice someone saying, “You know, the thing… the thing we use for…” instead of using the specific word. Or they may seem to “tune out” in conversations that used to be easy for them to follow.

7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

Everyone misplaces keys or glasses. The difference with early dementia is how often it happens and the increasing difficulty finding items again.

Red Flags

• Keeping items in unusual places (keys in the fridge, remote in a shoe, wallet in the oven)
• Frequently accusing others of stealing or moving things
• Being unable to retrace their steps or recall what they were doing beforehand
• Persistent confusion and frustration over “disappearing” objects

Misplacing things can also lead to significant stress and tension within families, especially if the person becomes suspicious or distressed.

8. Changes in Judgment or Decision-Making

Dementia can affect the parts of the brain responsible for reasoning and judgment, which may lead to uncharacteristic decisions.

What This Might Look Like

• Giving away large amounts of money or valuables without a clear reason
• Falling for scams, telemarketing schemes, or misleading offers more easily
• Poor judgment around personal safety (e.g., leaving doors unlocked, walking alone at night, driving despite clear difficulties)
• Neglecting grooming, hygiene, or appropriate clothing for the weather

These changes can be subtle at first. Family members might notice that the person is “not themselves” when making financial or personal decisions.

9. Withdrawal from Social Activities, Work, or Hobbies

As thinking and memory change, some people start pulling back from things they once enjoyed.

Common Patterns

• Skipping social events, group activities, or church/club meetings
• Losing interest in hobbies such as reading, puzzles, crafts, sports, or music
• Struggling to keep up with conversations and choosing to stay quiet
• Feeling overwhelmed in busy or noisy environments

Withdrawal can also overlap with depression or anxiety, which can occur on their own or along with dementia. It’s not always clear what’s causing what, which is another reason a professional evaluation can be helpful.

10. Mood, Personality, or Behavior Changes

Personality stays quite stable for most adults. Sudden or progressive shifts can signal that something deeper is going on.

Possible Changes

• Increased irritability, anger, or impatience
• Growing anxiety, fearfulness, or suspiciousness
• Unusual apathy—appearing “flat,” indifferent, or detached
• Seeming more impulsive or uninhibited than usual
• Heightened confusion or distress in new situations

Spouses, adult children, or close friends often sense that the person “just isn’t acting like themselves,” even before they can pinpoint specific memory problems.

11. Early Signs in Yourself vs. a Loved One

Recognizing early dementia in yourself can feel different than recognizing it in someone else.

If You’re Worried About Yourself

You might notice:

• More frequent forgetfulness than your peers
• Difficulty keeping track of appointments, tasks, or conversations
• Needing more time or support for tasks that used to feel easy
• A growing sense that something is “off,” even if others haven’t commented

Self-awareness can vary. Some people notice changes early on; others do not recognize them until family or coworkers point them out.

If You’re Worried About a Loved One

Loved ones often see:

• Repeated questions or stories over short periods
• Confusion about familiar places, people, or routines
• Unusual mistakes in familiar tasks (like paying the same bill multiple times, or not at all)
• Shifts in mood, personality, or social involvement

If several of these changes appear together and persist or worsen, it may be time to gently encourage an evaluation.

12. Conditions That Can Look Like Dementia (But Aren’t)

Not every problem with memory or behavior is due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Other factors can cause similar symptoms, some of which may improve with appropriate care.

Examples of Dementia-Like Conditions

• Depression: Can cause forgetfulness, poor concentration, sleep changes, and withdrawal
• Anxiety: May interfere with memory and focus
• Medication side effects: Some medicines can affect thinking or alertness
• Sleep problems: Sleep apnea or chronic insomnia can impair memory and thinking
• Thyroid issues or vitamin deficiencies: Can lead to brain fog, low energy, and mood changes
• Infections or metabolic issues: Sometimes trigger sudden confusion, especially in older adults

Because these conditions may be partly reversible, many experts encourage checking them first before assuming a diagnosis of dementia.

13. When to Consider Seeking a Professional Evaluation

People often wait a long time before raising concerns, partly out of fear. But an evaluation does not automatically lead to a diagnosis of dementia. It is simply a way to:

• Understand what is causing the symptoms
• Rule out other conditions
• Get guidance on support and planning

Possible Indicators an Evaluation May Be Helpful

• Memory or thinking changes are noticeable, persistent, and worsening
• Daily tasks (finances, driving, medications, cooking, work duties) are becoming more difficult
• Friends, family, or coworkers are commenting with concern
• Mood or behavior has changed significantly and is affecting relationships

An evaluation may involve:

• A conversation about symptoms and medical history
• A physical and neurological exam
• Basic cognitive screening tests (short memory and thinking tasks)
• Possible blood tests or brain imaging, depending on the situation

None of these steps alone confirm or rule out dementia, but together they provide a clearer picture of what’s going on.

14. How to Talk About Concerns With a Loved One

Bringing up memory concerns can be delicate. Emotions like fear, shame, or denial are common. The way the conversation is approached can make a big difference.

Practical Communication Tips 💬

• Pick a calm moment. Avoid stressful times or heated arguments.
• Use “I” statements.
  • ✅ “I’ve noticed you seem more stressed about bills lately, and I’m worried.”
  • ❌ “You keep messing up the bills.”
• Focus on support, not blame.
  • “Maybe we could talk to a doctor together so we both understand what’s going on.”
• Be specific. Point to concrete examples rather than general labels like “you forget everything.”
• Expect mixed reactions. They may be relieved, defensive, or upset. It may take more than one conversation.

The goal is not to convince them they have dementia but to share observations and explore options together.

15. Supporting Someone While You’re Still Looking for Answers

Whether there is a diagnosis or not, small changes in how you support someone can make daily life easier and safer.

Helpful Everyday Strategies 🧠✨

• Simplify routines:
  • Keep important items (keys, wallet, glasses) in a consistent, visible spot
  • Use checklists for common tasks
• Use gentle reminders:
  • Calendars, large-print notes, and phone alarms can support independence
• Create a calm environment:
  • Reduce clutter and background noise where possible
• Encourage meaningful activities:
  • Short walks, music, simple hobbies, or social visits can boost mood and engagement
• Maintain respect and autonomy:
  • Offer help, but avoid taking over everything at once unless clearly needed

These adjustments can be beneficial even if the cause of symptoms turns out to be something other than dementia.

16. Key Early Signs at a Glance

Here’s a quick summary of early signs many people look out for:

If several of these changes appear together and persist or worsen over time, many people consider exploring a professional evaluation.

17. Caring for Yourself While You Care for Others

Concern about dementia affects not only the person experiencing symptoms but also their family and friends.

If You’re the One Worried About a Loved One

• Acknowledge your emotions. Fear, sadness, frustration, and guilt are common and understandable.
• Share the load. When possible, involve other trusted family or friends rather than carrying all concerns alone.
• Stay informed. Understanding what early signs may mean can reduce some uncertainty, even before a diagnosis is made.
• Protect your own well-being. Rest, connection with others, and activities you enjoy are not luxuries; they help sustain you.

If You’re Worried About Yourself

• You are not alone. Many people quietly worry about their memory or thinking.
• Write things down. Keeping a simple record of changes can help you describe them clearly if you decide to seek evaluation.
• Take one step at a time. Even requesting a general checkup can be a meaningful first move.

18. What Recognizing Early Signs Can—and Cannot—Do

Recognizing early signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s does not:

• Confirm a diagnosis
• Predict exactly how quickly symptoms may progress
• Define a person’s identity or potential

But it can:

• Encourage timely evaluation for other treatable causes of symptoms
• Help families begin practical planning, such as organizing documents or discussing wishes
• Reduce the shock of sudden crises by noticing patterns sooner
• Open space for compassion, patience, and understanding

Awareness is not about labeling someone; it’s about seeing the full picture more clearly so they can be supported with dignity and respect.

Quick Takeaways for Readers 🧾✨

• Not every memory lapse is dementia; look for persistent, disruptive changes in daily life.
• Early signs often involve recent memory, familiar tasks, word-finding, judgment, and mood.
• Several other conditions—such as depression, medication effects, or sleep problems—can cause similar symptoms.
• A professional evaluation aims to understand and explain symptoms, not simply apply a label.
• Gentle, specific, and supportive conversations help when raising concerns with a loved one.
• Small adjustments at home—routines, reminders, simplification—can support independence and safety at any stage.

Recognizing early signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease is rarely easy, but it doesn’t have to happen in silence or isolation. By paying attention to meaningful changes, talking openly, and seeking informed perspectives, you create a path toward clarity, planning, and compassionate support—for yourself and for those you care about.