What Are Some Surprising Symptoms of Dementia?
In the world of dementia care, it’s not just about the obvious signs like forgetting or getting mixed up. There are lesser known symptoms that often slip under our radar in the early days and some of them might surprise you. We’re about to dive into five of these surprising signs, ones that might whisper ‘early dementia.’ But keep in mind, these could also be little red flags for other health conditions and don’t necessarily mean it’s dementia.
1. Lack of Facial Expressions (Lack of Affect)
Have you noticed your loved one showing less emotion than usual? People with dementia might not show their feelings on their face like we expect. This is called ‘lack of affect.’ It means they might not look happy or excited, even if they should be. This can be hard for their families who want to make them happy. But remember, this can happen with other illnesses too, not just dementia.
2. Changes in Walking
Dementia can impact more than just memory – it can change how a person walks. You might notice your LOWD walking slower, being more cautious with their steps, or even appearing stooped over or looking like they are having trouble moving their legs. These changes are significant enough that there’s a specific test, the “Timed Up & Go (TUG) test,” used by healthcare professionals to assess them.
3. Moments of Clarity
Dementia can be a rollercoaster. Sometimes, people with dementia seem totally fine, like nothing is wrong. Sometimes there’s confusion, and sometimes things are clear. These moments can be a source of joy and connection, so embrace them when they happen. Don’t let them confuse you or make you doubt the diagnosis – enjoy the time you have with your loved one.
4. Visual Hallucinations
It’s not just about memory loss; people with dementia might experience visual hallucinations, seeing things that aren’t there (like objects or people). This is more common with a type of dementia called Lewy body dementia, but it can happen with other types too. It’s important to know that just because someone sees things, it doesn’t always mean they have dementia.
5. Talking Normally
Sometimes, someone with dementia can talk just fine, especially during a short doctor’s visit. This can make it hard for doctors to realize there’s a problem. Dementia can happen even if someone’s speaking is okay. Doctors look at eight different ways of thinking to diagnose dementia, and only one needs to be really bad for them to say it’s dementia. It’s important to remember that dementia affects people differently, and language abilities might remain strong even when other cognitive areas are declining.
Wrapping Up
These five signs are just the tip of the iceberg in understanding dementia’s complexities. Did you recognize any of these signs in your loved one? Do you have more questions or insights to share? Drop a comment below, and let’s keep the conversation going. Your feedback helps shape our future content and supports others on this journey.
And if you’re more of a visual learner, I’ve got you covered! Check out my detailed video breakdown of this topic on YouTube. Watch the video now and join the conversation in the comments!
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Sending you loads of love and support. Remember, each journey with dementia is unique, and understanding these lesser-known signs can make a big difference in your caregiving journey.
Want to watch the in-depth video that inspired this post?
Click the video below to watch. ↓
8 Responses
Thank you for all of the info you share. It is helpful to me.
Just found this now, so a few months late.
Just a question about the MRI, you say it was negitive?
My husband is to get an MRI On the 4th of July.
Did the MRI not show shrinkage?
Lorna
I relate to all you say. So good to know I’m not the only one. I’m grateful my husband and I can still enjoy companionship. I agree it’s one day at a time.
Thank You , I have noticed a few of the changes you have mentioned. My husband has had dementia for 12 years now. It is quite sad.
What you do is Amazing 👏 Thank you 😊 ❤️
This is an incredibly informative site, I am so grateful to have found Careblazers! My husband, who is 81 yrs old was seen by his PCP 2 yrs ago and was given the usual screening type exam included in his Medicare Wellness visit. His clock was distorted, his memory of the current date was off by 2 years, his gait is stooped and his balance is less than ideal. His ability to fix any tools or motorized equipment is impaired,he cannot measure anything and identify carpentry work that is “off”. His emotional is lability was much more so than usual. I was overwhelmed to say the least, dreading what was ahead for both of us. His MRI was negative, by the way and labs were all within the normal range. Fast forward to the Pandemic isolation and it was actually a relief for him to not have to constantly interact, etc. Today, I think he remains stable, he’s calmer, I’m calmer knowing that MCI isn’t the end of the world and that we can still have a relationship albeit with me taking over the majority of banking, finances and decisions, and identification of issues that need attention. Today is the only day that truly matters, I’m grateful for all we have and that we are still moving on together in this part of our 57 yr marriage. I very much rely on your site and presentations to guide me (and us) and see that we remain healthy and connected. You are a gift💕