Early Signs of Dementia You Need to Recognize

Lisette Marie

13. Difficulty Adapting to Change

Confused senior women using mobile phone. Photo Credit: Envato @GaudiLab

Individuals in the early stages of dementia often struggle with even minor changes in routine. A simple shift in plans—such as taking a different route to the grocery store or attending a new social event—can trigger frustration or distress. They may insist on following strict routines and become agitated when something unexpected occurs. This resistance to change stems from cognitive difficulties in processing new information and adjusting to unfamiliar situations, making even small disruptions feel overwhelming.

14. Neglecting Personal Hygiene

Neglecting personal hygiene. Photo Credit: Envato @perfectlab

A noticeable decline in personal hygiene can be an early indicator of dementia. Individuals who were once meticulous about their appearance may suddenly forget to bathe, brush their teeth, or change their clothes regularly. They might not recognize the importance of these tasks or become overwhelmed by the steps involved. Poor hygiene can also be linked to apathy, where individuals lose interest in self-care and daily routines altogether. If hygiene habits drastically decline without an obvious reason, it could signal the onset of cognitive decline.

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13. Difficulty Adapting to Change

14. Neglecting Personal Hygiene

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