Dementia warning signs include worrying symptom when getting dressed - how to spot

An important early indicator of dementia might become apparent while someone is choosing what to wear. Experts have outlined several key symptoms of this debilitating condition that people should watch for.

When asked to characterise dementia, most people would instantly consider memory difficulties. Although these represent significant indicators of the illness, there are additional behavioural alterations that warrant attention.

To assist in identifying whether a family member has dementia, the Alzheimer Society of Canada has compiled 10 frequent symptoms to monitor.

Among these is compromised judgement. According to the organisation, this might lead a person to make unwise decisions that could endanger their well-being.

It states this includes putting on "heavy" clothes during hot weather - behaviour that might result in heat stroke.

The society explains: "Are you, or the person you know, not recognising something that can put health and safety at risk?

"From time to time, people may make questionable decisions such as putting off seeing a doctor when they are not feeling well.

"However, a person living with dementia may experience changes in judgement or decision-making, such as not recognising a medical problem that needs attention or wearing heavy clothing on a hot day."

If you have any concerns regarding this matter, the organisation recommends consulting with a GP. The Alzheimer Society identified nine additional warning indicators of dementia requiring action.

Find out about the symptoms you need to watch out for and get health advice with our free health newsletter from the Daily Express

Memory loss that impacts daily functioning - A person with dementia might forget things more frequently or struggle to retain recently acquired information.

Difficulty performing familiar tasks - People living with dementia may struggle to complete tasks that have been second nature to them, such as cooking a meal or participating in a game.

Problems with language - Those suffering from dementia might forget basic words or substitute them, making their speech hard to comprehend.

Disorientation to time and place - Dementia patients can find themselves lost on their own street, unsure of how they arrived there or how to return home.

Problems with abstract thinking - A person with dementia may encounter significant challenges with tasks due to a loss of understanding of numbers and their application.

Misplacing things - While anyone can momentarily misplace their wallet or keys, a person with dementia may place items in inappropriate locations.

Changes in mood and behaviour - People with dementia can exhibit varied mood swings - transitioning from calmness to tears to anger - without any obvious reason.

Changes in personality - Those living with dementia may undergo dramatic personality changes, becoming confused, suspicious or withdrawn.

Loss of initiative - A person suffering from dementia may become passive and uninterested, needing cues and prompts to engage.

The society further advises: "If you are concerned about any of these signs, the next step is to talk to your doctor. Only a qualified healthcare provider, after multiple assessments and tests, can confirm whether you or someone you know has dementia."