Dementia often does not begin with dramatic changes. It can emerge gradually — through subtle shifts in personality, communication, or behavior that are easy to attribute to stress, aging, or life circumstances.
For many families, awareness comes in hindsight.
In an opinion piece for USA TODAY, contributor Kevin Jameson shared his personal story of missing early warning signs in his wife before she was diagnosed with a severe cognitive disorder. What initially felt like mood changes or relationship strain ultimately turned out to be something much more serious.
His experience is a reminder: recognizing early signs of dementia may allow families to seek support sooner and plan more effectively.
Five Early Signs to Watch For
While occasional forgetfulness can be part of normal aging, persistent or escalating changes deserve attention.
Consider whether your loved one is:
- Forgetting important recent information, not just misplacing items occasionally
- Having difficulty completing familiar tasks such as cooking, managing finances, or driving
- Struggling to find words or follow conversations
- Placing items in unusual locations
- Showing new personality changes such as increased suspicion, aggression, anxiety, or confusion
Holiday gatherings and family events can sometimes bring these differences into clearer view, as comparisons are made to previous years.
What To Do If You Notice Changes
If something feels concerning, try to respond calmly and thoughtfully.
- Avoid arguing or correcting in the moment. Instead, lower anxiety by redirecting the conversation, speaking slowly, and asking simple yes-or-no questions.
- Compare observations with trusted family members. Keep written notes of behaviors, dates, and patterns.
- Encourage medical evaluation. Significant cognitive decline is not considered a normal part of aging and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Some causes of memory problems may be treatable. Even when they are not reversible, early evaluation allows families to plan for care, safety, and support.
Understanding Dementia
Dementia is not a single disease but a general term describing a group of symptoms that affect memory, reasoning, communication, and daily functioning. Conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease are among the most common causes, but many different brain disorders fall under the dementia umbrella.
Early recognition can make a meaningful difference — not only in medical management but in preserving dignity, strengthening support systems, and allowing important conversations to happen while your loved one can still participate in decisions.
You Are Not Alone
Many caregivers look back and wish they had acted sooner. Hindsight can bring guilt — but it should also bring compassion for yourself. Dementia is complex, and its early signs are often subtle.
At Delaware Hospice, we support individuals and families at every stage of serious illness, including advanced dementia. If you have concerns about cognitive decline or would like guidance about next steps, our team is here to help you navigate those conversations with care.
This article was adapted from an opinion column in USA TODAY written by Kevin Jameson, founder of the Dementia Society of America.
