Dementia can be difficult to detect in its earliest stages. The changes often start small - easy to dismiss, or mistake for “just aging.” But recognising the early signs is one of the most important things families and care partners can do.
In a powerful guide, AARP outlines 10 early warning signs of dementia that go far beyond memory loss. These include shifts in behaviour, communication, and daily function - such as confusion with time and place, difficulty completing familiar tasks, or withdrawing from work and social activities.
The list includes:
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Memory loss that disrupts daily life
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Trouble with planning or problem-solving
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Difficulty completing routine tasks
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Confusion about time or place
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Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
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New problems with words (speaking or writing)
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Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
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Decreased or poor judgment
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Withdrawal from work or social situations
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Mood and personality changes
These changes may seem small at first - missed appointments, a lost item, a hesitation in speech - but when they begin affecting day-to-day life, they may be signs of something more serious.
Early diagnosis means families can plan together, get support in place, and reduce uncertainty. It can also lead to better outcomes, both emotionally and practically.
That’s why tools like Elli Cares are designed to help caregivers spot early shifts and support loved ones with routines, reminders, and safe communication. While an app can’t diagnose, it can help families stay connected and notice changes before they become crises.
👉 Read the full article on AARP
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