How to spot early signs of dementia, according to Doctor Hilary Jones

Doctor Hilary Jones shares how to spot the signs of dementiaLorraine, ITV

Transcript

00:00 What should people be looking out for?

00:02 I think in the early stages it's increasing forgetfulness,

00:05 forgetting the names of places, of people and of objects.

00:09 Misplacing items is very common,

00:11 repeating the same question time and time again.

00:14 Also, you know, it's harder to make decisions

00:17 for people who are affected by dementia.

00:19 And then as things get worse, it's a disorientation.

00:23 People don't know where they might wander off,

00:24 they might get lost.

00:26 Delusions, paranoia, suspicion.

00:28 These are cardinal symptoms, typical symptoms,

00:31 and lack of self-care starts to get in the way as well.

00:34 So if you've got worries about a loved one

00:36 who's behaving that way,

00:37 it's really important to get checked out.

00:39 That early diagnosis makes a huge difference

00:41 for planning care for the future,

00:44 for easing stress on anyone who's associated with them.

00:48 And of course, to find out if there's any treatable part

00:51 of dementia that can make a difference.

00:53 So early diagnosis is key

00:54 and there are healthcare professionals out there