Early Signs of Dementia: symptoms, self-care and when to get help
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check.
Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. Early signs can include memory loss for recent events, difficulty concentrating or following a conversation, confusion about time or place, and changes in mood. If you notice these in yourself or a relative, see a GP: other treatable conditions can cause similar symptoms, and an early diagnosis helps with planning and support.
Overview
Dementia is a group of symptoms caused by different diseases, the most common being Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time.
Many things can cause memory problems, including stress, depression, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, infections and some medicines. That is why a GP assessment is important rather than assuming the worst.
What may help
- Keep a note of the changes you have noticed and when they started, to share with the GP
- Go to the appointment together if the person is happy for you to
- Stay socially and physically active, which is good for brain health
- Look after heart health: blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and alcohol all affect dementia risk
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- Memory problems or confusion that are getting worse or affecting daily life
- Difficulty with familiar tasks, such as managing money or following a recipe
- Changes in personality, mood or behaviour
- Problems finding the right words, or getting lost in familiar places
When it could be an emergency
- Confusion that comes on suddenly, over hours or days (this may be delirium and needs urgent same-day help)
- Sudden confusion with face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech (possible stroke)
If any of these apply, don't wait — call your local emergency number (see emergency numbers by country, or Red Flags in the app), or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "Early Signs of Dementia" in the appCommon questions
Is memory loss a normal part of ageing?
Some slowing of thinking is common with age, but memory loss that affects daily life is not normal and should be checked by a GP.
What happens at a GP appointment about memory?
The GP will ask about symptoms, check for other causes with blood tests, review medicines and may do a short memory test. They may refer to a memory service for further assessment.
Can dementia be cured?
There is currently no cure for most types of dementia, but treatments and support can help people live well and manage symptoms.
What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's?
Dementia is the umbrella term for a group of symptoms. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia.
Official sources
Related topics
Sudden Confusion (Delirium)
Sudden changes in thinking need urgent attention.
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Insomnia (Trouble Sleeping)
Common causes, sleep habits, and when to get help.
General information only, last checked 2026-09-23 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. See how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.