Early signs of dementia: 4 warning symptoms that may appear before memory loss
Key Points:
- A GP has identified four early physical warning signs of dementia—unsteady gait, clumsiness, difficulty with coordination, and tremors or stiffness in the limbs—that may appear before memory loss begins.
- Dementia affects over 944,000 people in the UK, with one in 11 individuals over 65 diagnosed, and its prevalence is rising due to increased life expectancy.
- Early detection is crucial for managing dementia symptoms effectively, but many delay seeking medical advice, often mistaking signs for normal aging rather than a treatable condition.
- Lifestyle factors such as physical activity, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake can help reduce the risk of developing dementia.
- Experts warn that dementia is not a normal part of aging, and prompt consultation with healthcare professionals upon noticing symptoms can lead to timely support and intervention.