How to Recognize Early Onset Dementia | Avalon Memory Care
Care teams for early onset dementia
Alzheimer's, Dementia, Senior Health

How to Recognize Early Onset Dementia

Noticing changes in a loved one’s memory or behavior before age 65 may lead to questions about early onset dementia. While not common, it can also impact individuals in their 40s, 50s, and early 60s. 

This guide will define early onset dementia, who it impacts, and how to spot early warning signs.

Signs and Symptoms of Early Onset Dementia

Early onset dementia symptoms often start subtly and can be easily mistaken for stress or typical aging. However, the key difference is that dementia symptoms gradually worsen and interfere with daily life. 

Example: It is normal to occasionally forget a name or misplace keys. However, early onset Alzheimer’s symptoms are more persistent. For instance, a person with typical aging may retrace their steps to find keys; a person with dementia might put those keys in the refrigerator and have no memory of doing so.

Common signs of early onset dementia include:

  • Memory Loss Disrupting Daily Life- Forgetting recently learned information or asking the same question multiple times.
  • Difficulty Planning or Problem-Solving- Struggling to follow a familiar recipe or manage a monthly budget.
  • Confusion with Time or Place- Losing track of dates or getting lost in familiar locations.
  • Trouble Finding the Right Words- Difficulty holding a conversation or struggling to remember words.  
  • Mood and Personality Changes- Becoming unusually withdrawn, anxious, or irritable, especially in social situations.

How to Test for Early Onset Dementia

If you are concerned, don’t rely on guesswork. A doctor will use a combination of medical history, cognitive assessments, blood tests, and brain scans to reach a formal diagnosis.

When to Get Help

The best time to seek help is as soon as consistent changes are noticed. Early diagnosis allows for better treatment options, more time to plan for the future, and immediate access to support systems.At Avalon, memory care is our sole focus. We provide a compassionate, home-like environment specifically tailored to the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments. Use our Free 5-Minute Memory Assessment Tool to better understand your loved one’s needs or Schedule a Tour at one of our 25+ locations today.

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