If you are part of the baby boom population are you concerned about dementia? If so, you are not alone as many baby boomers are at an age where dementia is a justifiable worry. In fact, many baby boomers are already suffering from the disease and knowing the signs for early detection can be critical in early intervention treatment. If you are a baby boomer or know someone who is, here are some of the top signs you will want to be aware of.

• Forgetfulness: While all of us do forget things from time to time, memory loss related to dementia is more prevalent and not just occasional.
• Difficulty with remembering everyday routines and activities. For example, forgetting regular appointments or other social gatherings you would normally attend.
• Difficulty performing everyday tasks. This might include not remembering that you have prepared something to cook or bake and then leaving the stove or the oven on.
• Declining ability to think clearly which can in some people create irrational behaviors that were not seen before.
• Difficulty with language. Many who suffer from dementia forget simple words which makes having a conversation with others difficult. They may interject words that do not fit into their conversations for ones they have forgotten.
• Confusion: Dementia sufferers can often seem confused or unsure of themselves.
• Changes in personality. Many times dementia sufferers can have sudden personality swings or it can be gradual over time. For example, someone who has always had a gentle personality may become mean and angry all the time.
• Getting Lost: Those who are suffering from dementia often get lost or lose their way driving or walking even in places that they are very familiar with.
• Mood swings: Having changes in ones mood is also a possible indication of dementia.
• Impaired judgment: Struggling with the ability to make good judgments is another possible indicator of dementia. For example, they may dress in a winter coat, hat and gloves on a sunny summer day or wear their pajamas out in public.
• Depression: Many dementia suffers struggle with depression and anxiety.
• Strange placement of personal belongings. Those suffering from dementia may leave their personal belongings in places that don’t make any sense. For example, they may put their hair dryer in the freezer or their dentures in the toaster oven.
• Decreased interest in hobbies and other previous activities. Those suffering from dementia may have a decreased interest in partaking in the hobbies and other activities they once loved.
• Making up stories: Some dementia suffers may make up stories to try to cover up things that they don’t remember.

What To Do If You Suspect Dementia

If you suspect you or someone you know is showing signs of dementia you should take action immediately. Being in denial or trying to hide symptoms will delay medical treatment which can be critical. Early detection and treatment for many baby boomers can slow down or delay memory loss and in some cases can even prevent it.