Early dementia signs often get missed, experts say.

Experts say common early signs of dementia include short-term memory loss, trouble with planning or executive tasks, personality change, word-finding problems, and increased susceptibility to financial scams, and that earlier diagnosis can help with planning and access to treatments.

Dementia is described by clinicians as a change in memory and thinking that interferes with daily life, and experts are warning that early signs are frequently overlooked. Recent research cited in the article reports that about 42% of American adults over 55 may develop dementia in their lifetime. Clinicians quoted include Dr. Gregory Day at Mayo Clinic, Dr. Stephanie Nothelle at Johns Hopkins, and Dr. Jori Fleisher at Rush University. The piece notes that early diagnosis can help with planning, access to treatments, and arranging supportive care. Key points: - Short-term memory loss that represents a change from prior ability, such as forgetting recent conversations or repeating questions. - Trouble with executive function or planning, shown by difficulty organizing multi-step tasks that were previously manageable. - Changes in mood or personality that are new or persistent compared with earlier behavior. - Frequent, consistent word-finding difficulty that interrupts conversation beyond occasional forgetfulness. - Increased vulnerability to financial scams, which clinicians say can be a sign of cognitive decline. Summary: Experts say these early signs can be subtle and vary between people, yet recognizing them can influence care and planning. The article reports that early detection may allow access to available treatments and support and that clinicians emphasize attention to vascular and sleep health and everyday lifestyle factors as relevant to brain health. Undetermined at this time.