What are the early signs of dementia?

Dementia advice

Jan 06, 2025

This guide explains the early signs and symptoms of dementia, how they differ from normal age-related memory loss, and when to speak to a GP or specialist. It is written for family members, friends and carers who are worried about changes in a loved one’s memory, mood or behaviour and want clear, clinically reviewed guidance.

Dementia is a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time. Recognising the early signs of dementia is crucial because it allows for early intervention that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Obtaining an early diagnosis can open the door to treatment options, lifestyle changes, and effective care planning.

What are the early signs of dementia? Watch the full video

What are the early signs of dementia?

Early symptoms of dementia often present subtly, but recognising them early is key to getting a diagnosis and support.

Common early signs include:

Short-term memory loss: Frequently forgetting recent conversations, appointments or where you have put everyday items. In one survey, 63% of people reported forgetting things they had just done or been told as their first noticeable symptom.
Changes in mood or personality: Unexplained low mood, irritability or depression. A person may say or do things that feel out of character.
Withdrawal from social activities: Avoiding social situations, hobbies or events they previously enjoyed because they feel overwhelmed, confused or anxious.
Difficulty with everyday tasks: Struggling to manage finances, follow a recipe, use familiar appliances or keep track of appointments.
Problems with concentration and decision making: Taking longer to process information, make choices or follow a conversation.
Sleep and energy changes: Ongoing fatigue, insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns, sometimes linked with increased anxiety or agitation.

Recognising these early signs and talking to a healthcare professional can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and supporting quality of life.

How do I distinguish the difference between ageing and early signs of dementia?

As we age, it’s common to experience some mild memory lapses. However, persistent or worsening changes can suggest something more serious than normal ageing. The table below compares typical age-related changes with early signs that may be linked to dementia:

Typical ageing	Possible early signs of dementia
Occasionally forgetting a word, but recalling it later.	Frequently forgetting simple words or using the wrong word.
Sometimes forgetting where you placed an item, but able to recall it later.	Regularly forgetting where things are, and unable to retrace their steps.
Occasional difficulty with complex tasks.	Struggling with familiar tasks that were once easy.
Occasionally losing track of time.	Becoming disoriented about the time of day or place.

If you or a loved one is showing several of the changes in the right-hand column, it’s sensible to speak to a GP.

Can the early signs of dementia differ in men and women?

The early signs of dementia can show up slightly differently in men and women, even though many symptoms overlap.

In men, early dementia signs may be more behavioural, for example increased irritability, aggression or risk-taking, alongside memory problems.
In women, early signs may be more mood related, such as low mood, anxiety or depression, together with forgetfulness and confusion.

It’s important to remember that every person is different. Whether you notice early signs of dementia in men or women, any ongoing changes in memory, mood or behaviour should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Early detection, risk factors and diagnosis

Key risk factors for dementia

Some factors can increase the risk of developing dementia, including:

Age: dementia is more common in people over 65, but early onset dementia can affect people in their 40s and 50s.
Family history and genetics: having a close relative with dementia may raise your risk.
Underlying health conditions: such as high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. These can increase the risk of vascular dementia.
Lifestyle factors: smoking, drinking excessive alcohol, physical inactivity and a poor diet can all contribute to poor brain and heart health.

Looking after your heart health, staying socially active and keeping your brain stimulated may help reduce your risk.

Why early diagnosis matters

Early detection of dementia is crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. When dementia is identified in the early stages, medical professionals can recommend treatments, therapies and lifestyle changes that may help slow down progression and plan future care.

When should I consult a doctor?

You should contact a GP or healthcare professional if you or someone close to you:

Has ongoing memory problems that are getting worse.
Shows changes in mood, personality or behaviour that are out of character.
Struggles with everyday tasks such as managing money, cooking or using familiar appliances.
Becomes more confused about time or place.
Withdraws from social activities, friends or family.

A GP may recommend cognitive assessments, blood tests or brain imaging, such as an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan, to help understand what is causing the symptoms. While dementia is not curable, a clear diagnosis means your loved one can access the right support, treatment and planning for the future.

FAQs

The most common early sign of dementia is short-term memory loss. For example, regularly forgetting recent events or conversations, repeating questions, or misplacing items and being unable to retrace your steps. Over time, this can be joined by confusion, difficulty completing everyday tasks and changes in mood or behaviour.

Most people with dementia are over 65, but early onset dementia can cause symptoms in people in their 40s or 50s. Early signs may be subtle at first and can develop gradually, so it is important to seek advice if you are concerned.

Dementia itself cannot be reversed, and there is currently no cure. However, an early diagnosis can help manage symptoms, slow progression in some cases and support better planning. Some conditions that look like dementia - such as depression, infections or medication side effects - may improve with treatment, which is another reason to speak to a GP.

The Big Dementia Conversation

We want to get the nation talking about dementia and some of the most difficult topics associated with the condition. Explore more articles in our online advice hub to take a closer look at the less-talked-about symptoms of dementia and how to navigate them. You can also discover more advice and support on our dementia help & advice page.

The Big Dementia Conversation

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What are the early signs of dementia?

What are the early signs of dementia? Watch the full video

What are the early signs of dementia?

How do I distinguish the difference between ageing and early signs of dementia?

Typical ageing

Possible early signs of dementia

Can the early signs of dementia differ in men and women?

Early detection, risk factors and diagnosis

Key risk factors for dementia

Why early diagnosis matters

When should I consult a doctor?

FAQs

The Big Dementia Conversation

Related articles

Your nearest care home

Are you happy to accept "Functional" cookies?

Save your shortlisted homes here.

Are you happy to accept 'Functional' cookies?

What are the early signs of dementia?

What are the early signs of dementia? Watch the full video

What are the early signs of dementia?

How do I distinguish the difference between ageing and early signs of dementia?

Typical ageing

Possible early signs of dementia

Can the early signs of dementia differ in men and women?

Early detection, risk factors and diagnosis

Key risk factors for dementia

Why early diagnosis matters

When should I consult a doctor?

FAQs

What is the most common early sign of dementia?

How early can signs of dementia start?

Can early signs of dementia be reversed?

The Big Dementia Conversation

Related articles

Your nearest care home