Early dementia signs people often miss and why they matter.

Experts identify five early dementia signs that are often missed — memory lapses, language problems, executive function changes, behavioural shifts and financial errors — and studies show many people delay mentioning concerns, which can reduce time to plan or access treatments.

More than 10 million people are diagnosed with dementia worldwide each year, and evidence indicates symptoms often begin long before an official diagnosis. Surveys report many people delay mentioning early concerns: one in three wait at least a month and nearly a quarter wait six months or more. Experts note that early signs are not limited to memory loss; language difficulties, executive function problems, behavioural changes and financial mistakes can also signal cognitive decline. Recent developments include drugs approved to target abnormal beta‑amyloid buildup and growing research on lifestyle factors that affect brain health. Key points: - Five commonly missed early signs are noted: increasing short‑term memory lapses, trouble finding words or continuing conversations, difficulty planning or completing familiar tasks, behavioural or mood changes, and problems managing money. - A 2023 Alzheimer’s Society survey found a sizable share of people delay reporting early concerns about cognition, with one in three waiting a month or more and nearly one in four waiting six months or longer. - Memory issues can show as repeated questions, missed appointments, medication errors or getting lost on familiar routes, rather than only occasional forgetfulness. - Behavioural shifts such as new anxiety or irritability, loss of interest in usual activities, and vulnerability to financial scams or irregular spending are described by clinicians as potential early indicators. Summary: Delays in recognizing these signs can reduce the time available to plan and to use treatments that may slow cognitive decline. Undetermined at this time.