4 early symptoms of dementia that appear before memory loss

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Your motor skills may be key to your brain health, says a doctor.

According to a study, by 2050, dementia will affect more than 150 million people. While there is no cure in sight, the best weapon in the fight against this mind-wracking condition is early detection.

Early diagnosis opens the door to future care and treatment by making awareness of symptoms a priority. Memory problems, especially with remembering recent events, are usually an early sign of dementia. However, the doctor shared that motor problems and physical signs can appear first.

“In some cases, physical symptoms can also appear before memory loss in dementia,” says the neurologist.

The neurologist shared the following early signs to look out for:

• Unsteady gait
• Clumsiness
• Coordination problems.
• Tremors or stiffness in the limbs.

While these symptoms can be alarming, the doctor noted that physical symptoms are more often associated with certain types of dementia, such as Parkinson's dementia.

In addition, each person can experience dementia differently, leading to differences in the progression of symptoms, the doctor shared.

“However, if you notice any of these early signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and intervention can help manage symptoms and provide the support you need.”

Your vision can also provide clues before memory problems become apparent.

Problems with reading or writing. Dementia can lead to problems with reading comprehension, coherent writing, or understanding numbers and letters.

Visual hallucinations. Some people with Alzheimer's disease may experience visual hallucinations (seeing things that aren't there).

How to reduce your risk of dementia

While some risk factors, such as age, are not negotiable, others can be easily modified.

As with any healthy diet, reduce your intake of saturated fat, salt, and sugar, and increase your fiber intake.

Alcohol and smoking can be dangerous triggers for brain health, so you should consider quitting or cutting back on alcohol. Additionally, doing at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking, cycling or dancing, can also help.

“It’s also important to sit less, so try to get up and move regularly,” the doctor adds.

Some studies show that drinking coffee, learning foreign languages ​​and eating a well-balanced diet also help delay the onset of dementia.