Understanding Dementia: World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
September marks World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a global campaign to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and advocate for support and resources for individuals and families affected by dementia. During this month, communities, caregivers, and health professionals come together to shed light on the realities of dementia and emphasize the importance of early detection, compassionate care, and continued research.
Dementia Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
It’s important to understand that every person is unique, and dementia affects each individual differently. No two people experience symptoms in exactly the same way, and changes in cognition and behaviour may vary in both form and severity. These differences can be influenced by many factors, including the type of dementia, overall health, age, lifestyle, and support systems.
While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, there are several other forms, such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia — each with its own characteristic symptoms and progression.
10 Common Warning Signs of Dementia
Recognizing the early signs of dementia is crucial in seeking appropriate care and support. Below are 10 of the most common warning signs, often associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. These signs are also depicted in the infographic shared during the awareness campaign:
1. Memory loss
Especially forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or repeatedly asking the same questions.
2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks
Trouble completing daily routines, such as cooking, managing finances, or getting dressed.
3. Problems with language
Struggling to find the right words, follow conversations, or repeating oneself frequently.
4. Disorientation to time and place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or forgetting where they are or how they got there.
5. Poor or decreased judgement
Making unusual decisions or showing less attention to grooming or money management.
6. Problems keeping track of things
Difficulty following a plan or working with numbers, or losing the ability to keep up with bills or a recipe.
7. Misplacing things
Putting items in unusual places and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
8. Changes in mood and behaviour
Experiencing confusion, suspicion, depression, fearfulness, or anxiety.
9. Challenges understanding visual and spatial information
Trouble reading, judging distance, or determining colour or contrast, which can affect driving.
10. Withdrawal from work or social activities
Avoiding hobbies, social engagements, or work projects they once enjoyed.
If these signs are new and are affecting daily life, they may be a sign of dementia. It is essential to remember that dementia is not a normal part of aging. While everyone occasionally forgets things or feels confused, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored.
Take Action: Seek Support and Information
If you or someone you know is experiencing these warning signs, talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and planning for the future. Additionally, national Alzheimer or dementia associations offer a wealth of resources, support groups, and information to help individuals and families navigate their journey.
Let’s work together this World Alzheimer’s Awareness Month to break the stigma, educate others, and support those living with dementia. Every voice and every action helps build a more compassionate and informed world.
Claire-Louise Smith
Lawyer, FILex – Wills, LPAs and Probate Department
Lifetime Lawyer for the Elderly