Getting dementia can be an incredibly tough experience not just for the sufferer but for the people that are close to them.
It's a degenerative condition that tends to affect the functions of the brain and body slowly, getting worse over time.
Alzheimer's is one of the most common forms of dementia, and it can cause symptoms such as memory loss and mobility issues, to name a few.
And it can be hard to identify at first, as many of these signs can be mistaken for someone 'just getting old'.
The Express reports that even though there isn't a cure, the earlier a person is diagnosed, the better support is available.
However, a new survey by the Alzheimer's Society revealed that only one in three people tell their doctors about themselves or a loved one experiencing dementia symptoms within the first month, with the majority not saying anything.
This is because people weren't sure which symptoms they should actually be worried about, and which ones were just a sign of old age.
This failure to report symptoms has a knock-on affect on how quickly people are able to get help and support, with 23 percent of people waiting six whole months before speaking to a medical professional about their condition.
Early signs of dementia including difficulty following a conversation, difficulty concentrating and memory loss could be mistaken for normal signs of ageing such as hearing loss and forgetfulness.
Kate Lee, chief executive officer of the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We can’t continue to avoid the ‘d’ word – we need to face dementia head on.
As soon as you realise something is not right, come to Alzheimer’s Society - you can use our symptoms checklist to help have that all-important first chat with your GP."
Early signs of dementia
According to the NHS, the seven earliest signs of dementia are as follows:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
- Finding it hard to do daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping
- Struggling to follow a conversation
- Being confused about time and place
- Mood changes
As the dementia progresses over time, the symptoms can worsen too.
More advanced cases of dementia can result in the following symptoms:
- Communication problems – with some people being unable to speak at all
- Mobility problems – many people become less able to move about without help
- Behavioural problems - a person can become agitated, depressed, aggressive or anxious
- Bladder and/or bowel incontinence
- Appetite and weight loss problems
If you or a loved one are concerned about experiencing any of these symptoms, it's recommended you speak to your doctor for help and advice.
Get the latest celebrity gossip and telly news sent straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily Showbiz newsletter here.
