When someone starts forgetting names, repeating questions, or losing track of time, it might be more than just aging. These could be early dementia symptoms, a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Also known as cognitive decline, dementia isn’t a single disease—it’s an umbrella term that includes Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause, accounting for 60-80% of cases, as well as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and others. What matters isn’t the label right away, but noticing changes that don’t fit the person’s usual behavior.
Dementia symptoms don’t always start with big memory gaps. Sometimes it’s subtle: misplacing keys often, struggling to find the right word, or having trouble managing bills. People might stop joining social events they used to love, or get confused in familiar places like their own neighborhood. These aren’t just "senior moments"—they’re signals that the brain’s wiring is changing. And while Alzheimer’s is the most talked about, other types like vascular dementia can come on after a stroke, and Lewy body dementia often includes visual hallucinations or muscle stiffness. The key is spotting patterns, not single incidents.
Family members often notice these changes first. A parent who used to cook complex meals now burns toast. A spouse forgets how to use the remote they’ve used for 20 years. These aren’t laziness or stubbornness—they’re signs the brain is losing its grip on routine tasks. If you see this happening, don’t wait. Early evaluation can rule out treatable causes like vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, or depression, which can mimic dementia. Even if it’s dementia, getting a diagnosis early means more time to plan, access support, and start treatments that can slow progression.
What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t a textbook on brain biology. It’s real-world advice from people who’ve been there: how to track changes at home, what questions to ask a doctor, how to handle safety risks like wandering or medication mix-ups, and why some common myths about memory loss need to be put to rest. These aren’t theories—they’re practical steps taken by families managing dementia every day. Whether you’re noticing subtle shifts in a loved one or trying to understand what comes next, this collection gives you the facts you need, without the fluff.
Vascular, frontotemporal, and Lewy body dementia are three distinct types with different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Knowing the difference can prevent dangerous misdiagnoses and improve care.
