Catching Dementia Early: Signs to Spot Before Memory Loss

Did you know that dementia can show up in ways other than just forgetting things? A doctor from Broadgate General Practice recently talked about this. Dementia is a condition that affects how your brain works over time. It can mess with your memory, reasoning, speech, and even how you feel. In the UK alone, over 944, 000 people have it, and this number is only expected to grow as people live longer. While there's no cure yet, getting a quick diagnosis can help control symptoms. Dr Johannes Uys said there are some bodily signs that might appear before you start forgetting things. These signs can vary from person to person, so it's important to pay attention. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone you care about, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional.Some things that can increase the risk of dementia, like age, can't be changed. But others, like how you live your life when you're younger, can make a difference. Exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet can lower the risk. Also, keeping your weight healthy, not smoking, and cutting down on alcohol and bad fats can help. The four early signs that the doctor mentioned can help people get the support they need early. But a survey by the Alzheimer's Society showed that only one out of three people go to the doctor within the first month of noticing symptoms. Many people aren't sure if the symptoms are just part of getting older. It's important to remember that dementia isn't a normal part of ageing. If you or someone you know is becoming more forgetful, especially after turning 65, it's a good idea to visit your GP. Researchers think that by 2050, around 150 million people worldwide could have dementia. Currently, about 900, 000 people in the UK are living with it.