This week is Dementia Action Week!

With this year’s theme focusing on diagnosis, we wanted to raise awareness of the early signs of dementia. 

We want to emphasise the importance of an early diagnosis, and what this could mean for you or a loved one. Continue reading to spot the signs and ‘act on dementia’.

Early signs of dementia to look out for

Familiarising yourself with how dementia can affect daily life is a positive step to take this Dementia Action Week.

Everybody’s experience of dementia is different. There are several different types of dementia, and it’s important to remember that the illness affects people in different ways. However, gaining a base knowledge of some of the common signs that appear before a dementia diagnosis is helpful.

The NHS notes the following early symptoms as being commonly associated with dementia:

• Loss of memory
• Finding it difficult to concentrate
• Difficulty carrying out familiar daily tasks
• Finding it hard to follow a conversation, or use the right words
• Changes of mood
• Being confused about time and place

These symptoms tend to be referred to as ‘mild cognitive impairment’ and whilst it doesn’t necessarily mean you have dementia, it may develop into dementia over time.

The next steps after spotting the signs

If these early signs are impacting your daily routine, then it’s important to book an appointment with your GP.

Never think that you are acting too prematurely, awareness and discussions regarding dementia are important.

Why is an early dementia diagnosis important?

According to the Alzheimer’s Society, dementia diagnosis rates have dropped for the first time ever.

It’s important that together, we make dementia a comfortable conversation and encourage ourselves and our loved ones to discuss the illness. Education is key, and learning what the symptoms are, means you can create a manageable and sensitive plan for the future.

There are plenty of amazing resources and places to visit to ensure your life is vibrant and full despite having dementia. Here at the Me2u Centre, we have lots going on for people with dementia – we are here to support you the whole way.

This Dementia Action Week take action

If you suspect you or a loved one has dementia, then it’s really important to seek help and get diagnosed early. Understanding the disease and the many different forms that it presents is powerful. A diagnosis may seem daunting, but understanding your illness can give you a better quality of life.

This Dementia Action week, stand with the Me2u Centre and raise awareness of diagnosis.