Look for warning signs of the condition to know whether to visit the doctor or realize when you need to take a loved one to the doctor. The earlier dementia is diagnosed, the sooner treatment and planning for the future can begin.
Struggles to remember recent events
Trouble reacting to problems and showing good judgment
Difficulty finding their way around familiar places
Trouble finding the right words to express emotions
Withdrawing, acting irritable
A physician diagnoses dementia by doing a physical exam, asking about recent and past events then verifying answers with a close family member. They will also perform basic memory and mental health tests. Sometimes the cause can be treated, so your doctor may do tests to look for an infection or for a tumor or brain injury. Falls can cause a head injury that can lead to symptoms of dementia.