Essential Tips to Spot Early Dementia Signs and Stay Ahead

19. Track Language and Word-Finding Difficulties

Occasional word lapses happen to everyone—but persistent struggles to find common words, misnaming objects, or substituting vague phrases (“that thing,” “you know what I mean”) could indicate early dementia. This is more than a brain fog moment; it's often a sign of changes in the brain's language centers. You might notice someone trailing off mid-sentence, struggling to follow conversations, or avoiding verbal communication altogether. These challenges can be frustrating and embarrassing for the person experiencing them, so approach with empathy and patience—while taking note for professional evaluation.

20. Pay Attention to Changes in Judgment or Decision-Making

One of the less obvious but critically important early signs of dementia is impaired judgment. This might show up as dressing inappropriately for the weather, falling for scams, or making uncharacteristically risky decisions. Changes in judgment can also manifest emotionally—such as becoming unusually gullible, insensitive, or impulsive. Unlike forgetfulness, this is about how someone thinks, not what they remember. If someone you know begins behaving out of character in ways that affect their safety or wellbeing, it’s important to take it seriously and begin exploring cognitive assessments sooner rather than later.