The Brain's SOS: 10 Early Warning Signs of Dementia You Can't Afford to Ignore

7. Misplacing Things and Losing Ability to Retrace Steps

Everyone loses the remote now and then, but a key warning sign of dementia is putting things in unusual places—like the TV remote in the fridge, or shoes in the bathroom cabinet—and being unable to retrace steps to find them. What sets dementia-related forgetfulness apart is the loss of problem-solving ability and the likelihood these episodes increase over time. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, loved ones may start to notice missing objects, and suspicion about theft may arise if memories can’t be pieced back together. If you experience these moments, viewing them as signals for gentle self-care, not self-blame, is important. Developing a habit of keeping important items in designated areas and making lists can reduce frustration. Reaching out to others for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and early attention opens doors to practical solutions.

8. Decreased or Poor Judgment

Even the most careful person occasionally makes a questionable purchase or forgets to dress for the weather. Dementia, though, can cause more frequent lapses in judgment—such as giving away large sums of money, falling for scams, or forgetting about hygiene and grooming. The Mayo Clinic explains that declining decision-making often shows up in money matters or when important personal choices suddenly seem less important than before. This goes beyond a “bad day” and may happen repeatedly or with more severe consequences. Having supportive family or financial safeguards in place is not just practical, but empowering. If you start seeing these shifts in yourself or a loved one, talk about financial safety and daily routines with care and honesty. Protecting independence is about planning ahead, not taking away choices.