Dementia is a neurodegenerative disease that is initially characterized by compromising the memory of patients over 60 years of age. However, there may be exceptions, and dementia may affect the memory care of younger patients due to several factors such as a traumatic brain injury, infection of the central nervous system, long-time alcohol or drug use, or a build up of fluid on the brain (known as hydrocephalus).

For this reason, here are possible red flags or warning signs to pay attention to, as they could be warning of potential dementia:

1. Changes in mental abilities
If the patient or one of his relatives begins to notice that there has been a change in his cognitive functions in recent years, for example, if there is something that he could always do well and suddenly began to cost, it is important to consult.

2. Change in routine
When a patient has a slight memory problem, but is lost when they change their routine environment, be it for vacations or a trip to another city, it may involve something more serious on the way, so it is a good time to consult with a physician.

3. Problems with other cognitive functions
Sometimes memory problems are compounded by flaws in other cognitive functions, such as problems with naming things or recognizing places. Anything that means an extra neurological symptom to memory problems is a reason for consultation, according to the specialist.

4. Psychiatric symptoms
For the first time in a lifetime, a patient begins to have psychiatric symptoms (i.e., depression, confused thinking, excessive paranoia or anxiety, mood changes of highs and lows, or withdrawal from friends and activities, etc.) of any type of mood disorder could be an indicator of dementia.

5. Confusion with medical illnesses
Another red flag to consult with a doctor is when the patient begins to be confused when he has medical illnesses. Memory care for seniors should be a part of a yearly examination and physical. If someone you know becomes disoriented when he has a urinary infection, pneumonia, fever, among others; and although symptoms may pass or decrease once the disease is over, it is important to consult your family doctor immediately.

6. Cognitive decline
Finally, whenever a person or a family member has doubts about their cognitive performance, it is a good time for a consultation, since what is being sought at this moment is to detect patients with memory loss at the earliest stage possible. It is better to discharge a patient because they were overly concerned, then to be overlooked and to arrive in the stage of dementia, even if it is mild, with no warning. So, it is better that you consult with a doctor if a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms. There are wonderful treatment centers and assisted living for Alzheimer’s that strive to give patients the best life possible despite their disease.