Loved ones may notice these changes before memory problems become obvious.
6. Mood and Personality Changes
Dementia affects more than memory.
It can also influence emotions and personality.
Some individuals become:
- More anxious
- Easily irritated
- Suspicious of others
- Withdrawn
- Depressed
- Less empathetic
These emotional changes are sometimes mistaken for stress, loneliness, or aging-related mood shifts.
7. Withdrawal From Social Activities
People experiencing cognitive difficulties often become aware that something is changing.
To avoid embarrassment, they may gradually withdraw from activities they once enjoyed.
Possible signs include:
- Avoiding social gatherings
- Quitting hobbies
- Declining invitations
- Reduced participation in conversations
- Loss of interest in favorite activities
Social withdrawal can accelerate cognitive decline by reducing mental stimulation and social engagement.
8. Visual and Spatial Difficulties
Some forms of dementia affect how the brain processes visual information.
A person may experience:
- Difficulty judging distances
- Problems navigating stairs
- Frequently bumping into objects
- Trouble parking a vehicle
- Difficulty recognizing spatial relationships
These symptoms can occur even when eyesight remains normal.
9. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
Everyone misplaces belongings occasionally.
However, individuals with dementia may place items in unusual locations and become unable to find them again.
Examples include:
- Putting keys in the refrigerator
- Leaving wallets in random locations
- Storing household items in inappropriate places
- Accusing others of stealing misplaced belongings
As memory declines, retracing steps becomes increasingly difficult.