Dementia: These 4 early symptoms can appear in middle age

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There are many common misconceptions about dementia, and perpetuating them is dangerous. First, dementia is mistakenly considered a consequence of old age. Age is a risk factor, but not a cause. In addition, you may develop dementia before age 65.

Another misconception is that memory loss is the initial warning sign. Although memory loss is a common characteristic, it is not always the first symptom. People with frontotemporal dementia (PTD), an unusual type of dementia, primarily experience problems with behavior and language.

In addition, PTSD is the second most common type of dementia (after Alzheimer's disease) in older adults. up to 65 years old.

“LHZ usually appears in middle age, with an average age of onset between 45 and 65 years and a peak prevalence in the seventh decade.”

He notes that noticeable “early” symptoms include a progressive coarsening of the personality, social behavior, self-regulation (emotions, drives, and behavior), and language.

“Gross changes in social behavior and language are often observed, including indifference to self-care and the needs of others, loss of language and understanding, loss of empathy, distraction, impulsivity, disinhibition, stereotyped behavior and rigid routines, and compulsions.

According to the NHS, there can also be physical problems such as slow or stiff movements, loss of bladder or bowel control, muscle weakness or difficulty swallowing.

“These problems can make daily activities difficult, and eventually the person may be unable to care for themselves.”

There are a number of risk factors associated with with lifestyle, many of which are similar to cardiovascular disease risk factors. These include smoking, uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes and lack of education.