Memory problems and dementia
Do you ever forget a name or where you’ve put your keys? It happens to everyone. As you get older, your memory may change a little. Sometimes memory problems are nothing to worry about, but they can also be a sign of dementia.
On this page, you can find out what dementia is, what signs may be associated with it, how dementia differs from normal ageing, and when it is advisable to contact your GP.
What is dementia?
Dementia is a collective term for more than fifty brain disorders. It refers to a combination of symptoms (a syndrome) in which the brain is no longer able to process information properly.
Recognising the early signs of dementia
The initial signs of dementia vary from person to person and depending on the type of dementia. However, there are 10 symptoms of dementia that can help you recognise the condition. It becomes apparent that someone is experiencing recurring memory problems, behavioural issues and changes in personality. For example, someone may struggle to remember what day it is, or become angry more easily.
Find out about the 10 symptoms of early-stage dementia
1. Memory problems
If someone forgets new information, this may be a sign of dementia. They may also forget important dates or events. Or they may ask the same question over and over again and rely on notes or family members for things they used to be able to remember without help.
2. Problems with everyday activities
Everyday tasks are becoming increasingly difficult. For example, managing financial affairs and pursuing hobbies. It’s also becoming harder to plan things or carry them out in the right order – such as making coffee or preparing a meal.
3. Mistakes regarding time and place
Someone with (early-stage) dementia has a reduced sense of time and is more likely to get lost. They sometimes forget where they are and how they got there.
4. Language problems
One characteristic of dementia is that it becomes more difficult to follow a conversation. The person may stop talking in the middle of a conversation and forget how to continue. Or they may repeat what they have already said. Someone with dementia may also forget names and simple words. Their speech also becomes less fluent.
5. Losing belongings
Someone with (early-stage) dementia may put things in unusual places. For example, a wallet in the fridge or a book in the oven. They lose things and can no longer remember where they left them.
6. Poor judgement
For someone with dementia, it can be difficult to assess situations and make decisions. They may find it hard to judge offers and end up spending large sums of money. For example, they might buy too much at the shops or things they don’t need.
7. Withdrawal from social activities
Someone may find it difficult to take part in social activities, such as their hobbies, sport and conversations. They tend to withdraw more often and do less than they used to. They may also sleep for much longer than usual.
8. Changes in behaviour and character
It is not uncommon for someone with dementia to start behaving differently. They may become confused, suspicious, depressed or anxious. Their mood may change for no apparent reason. Their personality may also change. They may sometimes do things they would never normally do.
9. Restlessness
One of the symptoms of dementia is restlessness. This makes it seem as though he is constantly looking for something, needs to tidy up or has to do something else. This constant feeling of restlessness and the urge to walk often leads to sleep problems.
10. Vision problems
The brain finds it difficult to process what a person sees. For example, the person may find it harder to judge distances.
Treatment of dementia
There is no cure for dementia (yet). However, the right treatment can help slow down the progression of the symptoms of dementia. Sometimes this involves medication, but often it does not. In addition, there is still a great deal that can be done to manage the condition as effectively as possible.
Watch the video below for more information on the treatment of dementia.
What is normal forgetfulness?
Forgetfulness is sometimes part and parcel of getting older.
In cases of normal forgetfulness:
- it occurs to me a little later;
- you can continue to function independently;
- you know where you are and what day it is;
- you don’t have any major problems in your daily life.
With dementia, the symptoms usually get worse and become increasingly apparent. The symptoms affect daily life.
When should you contact your GP?
Make an appointment with your GP if you’re experiencing memory problems more and more often, or if you, your partner or a family member are concerned. Memory problems can have various causes. Sometimes, for example, stress, low mood, lack of sleep or physical conditions can play a part. Your GP can help to investigate the cause.
Research into memory problems
The GP will discuss your symptoms and may ask questions about your memory and day-to-day functioning.
Sometimes further investigations are needed, such as:
- blood test;
- a conversation with a partner or family member;
- further investigation at the hospital or the memory clinic.
Living with dementia
Dementia brings about many changes, both for the person with dementia and for their family and friends. It can be helpful to arrange support at an early stage.
Examples include home care, day centres, support for informal carers, guidance from a dementia case manager, and assistance from local welfare organisations.
On the website Dementia Amstelland Here you can find information about the care and support options available in the region. Alzheimer's Netherlands also organises regular activities for people with dementia and their loved ones in Amstelland.
A dedicated point of contact for dementia
A dementia case manager supports people with dementia and their loved ones with questions about care, support and everyday life. The case manager works with them to find solutions, offers advice and helps arrange suitable support. This provides peace of mind and clarity at a time when so much is changing.
A case manager can also be of great help to partners, children and other informal carers. They can turn to the case manager with questions, concerns and practical problems. The case manager looks not only at the person with dementia, but also at the people around them.
If a diagnosis of dementia has been made, you can ask your GP to refer you to a dementia case manager.
Support for informal carers
Caring for someone with dementia can take up a lot of time and energy. It’s important to keep looking after yourself as well and to ask for help in good time.
On the page about informal care, you’ll find more information about support for informal carers.
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