Dementia is not one disease but rather a general term used to describe several disorders characterized by a progressive deterioration in memory, cognitive skills, and regularity in everyday activities. It is true that dementia is a common problem among elderly individuals; however, it is far from being a natural occurrence that comes along with aging.
According to the World Health Organization, dementia is one of the leading causes of disability and dependency among the global senior population. Millions of people suffer from dementia each year.
A gradual nature of the disease poses a serious challenge to timely detection. In the initial stage, changes in cognitive functions are often overlooked because of their mildness. They can easily be explained by fatigue, stress, and forgetfulness typical of old age. However, recognizing the early symptoms can significantly improve the quality of life of a patient.
Taking into account the latest findings in clinical practice and the recommendations of specialists in the medical field, here are the 10 earliest warning signs of dementia.