The NHS has issued a statement that warns people not to just assume the signs are a normal part of ageing
The NHS has issued an important warning about four symptoms to watch for. While you might be tempted to dismiss them as just a ‘natural part of ageing’, they could indicate the start of a potentially debilitating health issue.
Posting to X yesterday, the NHS wrote: “Different types of dementia can affect people differently, and everyone will experience symptoms in their own way. However, there are some common early symptoms that may appear some time before a diagnosis of dementia.”
Dementia is a broad term used to describe various conditions that lead to a decline in cognitive function, including Alzheimer’s disease. Recent figures suggest that more than 944,000 people in the UK currently have dementia, including one in every 11 people over 65 years old.
While symptoms of dementia can widely differ based on its type, the NHS especially urged Brits to watch out for the following:
- Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
- Finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping
- Struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
- Being confused about time and place or having mood changes
The fresh alert continued: “Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. It’s important to talk to a GP if you’re worried about memory problems or other symptoms.”
What is the most common type of dementia?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60 to 70% of cases, according to the World Health Organisation. It’s believed to result from an abnormal accumulation of two proteins, amyloid and tau.
These deposits typically form around brain cells, creating tangles that obstruct neuron transport and lead to cognitive decline. While the exact cause of this is still not fully understood, there are numerous factors associated with an increased risk. These include, but are not limited to:
- Lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease
- Increasing age (but dementia is not a ‘normal’ part of ageing)
- Family history of the condition
- Untreated depression
Alzheimer’s is a progressive condition, meaning its symptoms gradually develop over many years. Typically, the first signs appear as minor memory issues, such as forgetting names or misrecalling conversations.
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However, as the condition progresses, the NHS explains that other signs might include:
- Problems moving around without assistance
- Hallucinations
- Difficulties with communication, speech or language
- Trouble making decisions
- Confusion, disorientation or getting lost in familiar places
- Low moods and anxiety
- Behavioural changes – increasing aggression or suspicion
Online advice from the NHS adds: “There’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but medicines are available that can help relieve some of the symptoms.
“Various other types of support are also available to help people with Alzheimer’s live as independently as possible, such as making changes to your home environment so it’s easier to move around and remember daily tasks.
“Psychological treatments such as cognitive stimulation therapy may also be offered to help support your memory, problem-solving skills and language ability.”
Anyone who believes they are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease is encouraged to seek GP advice. Further information is available at the NHS website.