This Dementia Action Week (19-24 May) Alzheimer’s Society is shining a light on the six most common symptoms of dementia and encouraging people to seek help if they spot these signs in themselves or a loved one.
Around 75,000 people are living with dementia in the East Midlands and more than a third of them do not have a diagnosis.
Yet, new research by the charity reveals that 39% of UK adults in the East Midlands do not know that problems with vision changes can sometimes be a symptom of dementia – and more than 1 in 20 could not name a single common symptom of dementia.
[1] Dementia can affect vision in different ways, including problems judging distances (such as on stairs), perceiving the edges of objects, or misinterpreting patterns or reflections. It can also make reading large text more difficult, or cause issues with recognising objects.
The survey also found that across the UK less than two-thirds of respondents identified that problems with communication (61%) or mood changes (64%) were symptoms of dementia.
Peter Harris from Lincolnshire, who is living with vascular dementia, said: “When I was diagnosed with dementia, the doctor said the best thing is to try to keep your brain active.
“My kids have come up with lots of ideas to help me – they even got me an Alexa! I think new technology is amazing and I’d certainly forget to take my tablets if it wasn’t for that. It also reminds me to turn the oven off and I can even use her to switch my lights on and off!
“I was one of those people that didn’t like to ask because I didn’t want to feel like I was bothering anyone. But there are amazing people out there who are willing to help. My advice to others who have recently been diagnosed with a form of dementia, or anyone that notices any of the common symptoms? Don’t think you’re on your own – you don’t have to be!”
Michael White, Regional Services Manager for East Midlands, added: “This Dementia Action Week, we’re highlighting the six most common symptoms of dementia and encouraging anyone with concerns to use our free symptom checklist and seek help from their GP or other health professional.
“More than a third of people with dementia don’t have a diagnosis, meaning they’re missing out on the vital care, support, and treatment they need. But it doesn’t have to be this way. We understand that getting a diagnosis can be daunting, but we believe it’s better to know.
“Our research shows that 97% of people affected by dementia saw a benefit in getting a diagnosis. An early and accurate diagnosis helps people to live independently for longer, access existing treatments, and can prevent crisis situations. It also allows people to better understand their condition and plan for their future.”
[2] Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. The six most common symptoms of dementia include:
Memory loss – problems recalling things that happened recently
Difficulty organising thoughts – struggling to make decisions, solve problems or follow steps
Problems with communication – difficulties following conversations or struggling to find the right words
Problems with vision – problems judging distances or perceiving object edges
Getting confused about time or place – losing track of the time or date, or becoming confused about where they are
Changes in mood or personality – becoming unusually anxious, irritable, or withdrawn Finding the reason for any changes can help those living with dementia get the right information, treatment, and support. It can also help people and those around them to understand the changes they are experiencing and maximise the time spent with loved ones.
It also allows people to plan by putting in place lasting power of attorney, exploring care options, managing finances, and accessing any benefits they may be entitled to. If you’re worried about yourself, or someone close to you, then check your symptoms today.
Visit alzheimers.org.uk/checklist or call Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.
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