Do you or someone you know regularly misplace their belongings, have trouble following a conversation, or appear disoriented for no apparent reason? These kinds of signs, often attributed to age or stress, could reveal something more serious… What if it’s the very beginning of a deeper cognitive disorder?
Dementia: What is often confused
Contrary to popular belief, dementia is not a disease in its own right , but a set of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, behavior, and social skills. Yes, you can forget your keys without worrying… but when a lasting change sets in and impacts daily life , it must be taken seriously.
Most often diagnosed after the age of 65 , dementia can also affect much younger people. This is called early dementia , a phenomenon that is still too little known in France .
The 12 warning signs that should alert you
Here are the most common behaviors observed in the early stages of dementia. None of these alone can be used to make a diagnosis, but their accumulation should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional .
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Memory lapses more frequent than usual
Forgetting an appointment or a name can happen to anyone. But asking the same question multiple times or putting your keys in the fridge is a whole other level. Impaired short-term memory is a classic sign of the early stages.
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Everyday gestures that become complicated
Preparing a routine recipe , using the remote control, or following simple instructions can become confusing or stressful . This is a warning sign that should not be underestimated.
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Words that escape
The person searches for words, replaces simple terms with approximate descriptions (“the machine that tells the time” instead of “watch”), or has difficulty following a conversation.
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An unstable mood
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