Dementia is a serious disease that can often be as devastating for not just the patient but their loved ones too.
Associated with the function of a person's brain, dementia is a group of related syndromes that manifest in a variety of ways.
Some of these symptoms can be surprising as people often confuse them with just getting old. As with any illness, the earlier the symptoms are spotted and dementia diagnosed, then the better chance the patient has.
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Along with vascular dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common types of dementia and makes up the majority of cases. Even though it is commonly associated with memory loss, Alzheimer’s can also impact behavioural changes and create mobility issues.
However, a landmark new study published by the Alzheimer's Society has revealed that just one in three people open up to their doctor about experiencing dementia symptoms within the first month, with the majority remaining silent.
In a poll of 1,100 people, it was found that many people did not speak to their doctors as they were not sure what symptoms could be related to dementia, and which were just signs of normal ageing.
Only 15 per cent of people directly addressed the issue immediately while 11 per cent said they still hadn’t raised their concerns with anyone even after spotting the first symptom, while 23 per cent waited more than six months before they spoke to a doctor or GP.
The Express quotes the charity as saying: "One in three people (33 per cent) who notice symptoms of dementia in themselves or a loved one keep their fears to themselves for over a month."
Seven possible symptoms of dementia:
- Difficulty following a conversation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss
- Hearing loss
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings
- Difficulty moving
