Often, people with dementia notice themselves that something is wrong. If they express their concern, the symptoms are often seen by those around them as a result of stress, overwork or as a temporary phenomenon. They then try to hide the deficits that occur and to help themselves with various tricks, such as the use of small notes, multiple calendar entries and other memory aids. However, if at least three of the symptoms listed here accumulate, a trusted doctor should be consulted.

Search for items

Objects are more and more often left in inappropriate places. A constant search and blaming other people are the consequences.

Problems in reading, speaking, listening

Inappropriate filler words are used, sentences are ended abruptly or statements are increasingly reduced to everyday phrases. The attention span is shortened and prolonged listening is avoided.

Routine activities are no longer go easily to execute

Routine tasks that used to be done without problems can no longer be carried out (error-free) independently. Therefore, more complex tasks are increasingly simplified, for example by preparing only a few dishes or avoiding visiting new places.

Sense of Orientation deteriorates

Especially in less familiar places (in foreign surroundings, on holiday, while travelling), problems with orientation can occur. Finding your own hotel room again can be very difficult.

The sociability decreases

People with dementia often withdraw from social life, appear listless and disinterested. Hobbies or preferences are no longer lived. Relatives have the feeling that the person is "letting himself down".

Changes in personality

The mood and character of people with dementia can change. Withdrawal, mistrust, anxiety or sadness appear. Affected persons develop rigid patterns of action or work routines and react irritably when these routines are interrupted. Often, their judgement also deteriorates.

Source: Steirische Alzheimerhilfe SALZ

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