Dementia affects millions of people across the UK, and early detection can make a real difference to how well someone manages the condition. Recognising the early signs allows families to seek the right support and care sooner, helping loved ones maintain their independence and quality of life for as long as possible.
At Upper Mead Care Home, our experienced team supports residents living with dementia every day. We understand that noticing the first signs can be worrying, which is why we’ve created this guide to help families understand what to look out for and when to seek professional advice.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is not a single disease, but a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and behaviour. It is caused by damage to the brain and can develop due to conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, or Lewy body dementia.
While dementia is more common in older adults, it is not a normal part of ageing. Understanding the early signs can help you take action and access the right care and support sooner.
1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life
Occasional forgetfulness is normal, but frequent memory lapses that affect daily routines can be an early warning sign of dementia. This might include forgetting important dates, events, or recently learned information, and needing to rely on notes or reminders more than usual.
At Upper Mead, our dementia care team often supports residents who initially struggled with short-term memory before seeking help. Spotting this pattern early can help you get a diagnosis and start care planning in good time.
2. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks
If someone begins to find it hard to complete everyday tasks, such as making a cup of tea, using the phone, or managing household bills, this may signal early cognitive changes. The key difference is that these are tasks the person has always been comfortable doing before.
A gentle approach is best. Encourage the person to take their time and offer help when needed. If this difficulty becomes more frequent, it may be time to speak to a GP or memory specialist.
3. Confusion About Time or Place
It’s common for those in the early stages of dementia to lose track of time or forget where they are. They may struggle to recall dates, seasons, or the passage of time. Some people even become disoriented in familiar environments.
At Upper Mead Care Home, our staff are trained to provide reassurance and gentle reminders, helping residents feel grounded and supported at all times.
4. Changes in Mood or Personality
Dementia can cause noticeable shifts in mood, personality, or behaviour. Someone who was once outgoing may become quiet or anxious, or they might show signs of frustration, confusion, or withdrawal.
These changes can be distressing for families, but they’re often part of the condition rather than intentional behaviour. Compassion and understanding go a long way in helping loved ones feel calm and safe.
5. Struggling to Communicate
Another early sign of dementia is difficulty with language. This might include forgetting simple words, repeating themselves, or losing the thread of a conversation. Some people may pause mid-sentence, unsure how to continue.
Our dementia care team at Upper Mead works closely with residents to promote communication through gentle conversation, activities, and personalised interaction. We aim to make every individual feel heard and understood.
6. Misplacing Items or Putting Them in Unusual Places
Everyone misplaces things from time to time, but people living with early dementia may put objects in strange places and struggle to retrace their steps. For example, a remote control might end up in the fridge, or keys may be placed in a cupboard.
This confusion can lead to frustration or suspicion that others are taking belongings. Staying patient and supportive can help ease these moments of uncertainty.
7. Poor Judgment or Decision Making
Dementia can affect reasoning skills, leading to uncharacteristic decisions or lapses in judgment. You may notice changes in personal hygiene, financial choices, or social awareness.
If these changes become more frequent, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional. Early intervention can prevent potential harm and open the door to practical support.
8. Withdrawal from Social or Work Activities
People in the early stages of dementia often withdraw from hobbies, work, or social gatherings they once enjoyed. This may be due to fear of making mistakes, embarrassment about memory lapses, or reduced confidence.
Encouraging gentle participation can help maintain emotional wellbeing. At Upper Mead, we offer stimulating activities designed to build confidence and encourage connection in a supportive environment.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Spotting dementia early allows for access to specialist care, medication, and lifestyle adjustments that can slow the progression of symptoms. It also helps families make informed decisions about future care and support needs.
At Upper Mead, our team works with healthcare professionals to create personalised care plans tailored to each individual’s needs, preferences, and routines. Whether someone requires residential care or more advanced nursing support, we provide compassionate, person-centred care at every stage.
How Upper Mead Supports People Living with Dementia
Our dedicated Dementia Care service provides a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment where residents can live with dignity and confidence. Our experienced team members receive regular dementia training to ensure the highest standards of care.
We also offer Respite Care and Palliative Care to support families and individuals with varying care needs. Whether you’re exploring long-term options or short-term support, our goal is to help each person live a fulfilling and meaningful life.
When to Seek Help
If you’re noticing any of these signs in yourself or someone close to you, it’s important to speak to a GP or healthcare professional as soon as possible. An assessment can help rule out other causes and provide clarity on the next steps.
You can also contact Upper Mead Care Home directly for advice or to discuss how we can help. Our friendly team is always available to answer your questions and offer guidance on dementia support and care planning.
