Dementia signs worth knowing about

We all forget things occasionally – where we put our keys, people’s names and appointments.

How many times have you walked into a room and forgotten why you went in?

These kind of memory lapses tend to creep up on us as we get older, but when does forgetfulness become something to worry about?

Signs of dementia include memory loss and confusion, whicharemorenoticeable when they start to interfere with everyday life.

Someone with dementia may walk in to a room, not recognise it and not be able to retrace their steps.

They may find it hard to remember the names of everyday objects, find it a struggle to follow conversations, repeat themselves or lose the thread of what they are saying. No longer taking an interest in personal appearance, withdrawing socially and not engaging in the usual way are all signs that action may be needed.

Dementia is more common in people over the age of 65. Farmers often work long after retirement age, therefore raising awareness of the symptoms is important.

Early signs of dementia are similar to symptoms of other treatable conditions, so it is worth getting checked out by your GP if you are worried.

Whatever type of dementia a person has, everyone will experience the condition differently. Some people can live with mild impairment for several years and it can be influenced by personal attitude, relationships, other health conditions and the environment.

There is no cure for dementia but drugs and other therapies can help with some of the symptoms, so people can lead active, healthy lives and continue to do the things that matter to them most.

NHS Grampian healthline offers free and confidential advice – freephone 08085 202030.

Susan Webb says raising awareness is valuable