Dementia is a serious disease associated with the declining function of a person's brain, and it can often be devastating for not just the patient but their loved ones too.
It’s a group of related syndromes that manifest in a variety of ways - and some symptoms can surprise people as they're often confused with just getting old.
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common types of dementia, and along with vascular dementia, makes up the majority of cases.
Whilst commonly associated with memory loss, the illness can also lead to behavioural changes and mobility issues as well.
Like all ailments, the earlier the symptoms are spotted, and dementia diagnosed, the better support options a patient has.
But, 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 remaining mute.
The poll of 1,100 people showed that many people stayed quiet because they weren’t certain which symptoms could be related to dementia, and which were just signs of normal ageing.
The Express reported that the charity said: “One in three people (33 percent) who notice symptoms of dementia in themselves or a loved one keep their fears to themselves for over a month.”
The survey found only 15 per cent of people directly addressed the issue immediately.
Meanwhile, 11 per cent said they still hadn’t raised their concerns, with anyone even after spotting the first symptom.
This poses a problem because it has a knock-on effect on how quickly people are able to get help - 23 per cent waited more than six months before they spoke to a doctor or GP.
Seven possible symptoms of dementia:
- Difficulty following a conversation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Hearing loss
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings
- Difficulty moving
