Understanding Early Stage Dementia: Types and Symptoms
Dementia affects millions of people worldwide, with early-stage dementia often going unnoticed or misunderstood. This progressive brain disorder has an impact on memory, thinking, and behavior, gradually interfering with daily life. Understanding the early signs and symptoms of dementia is crucial to seek timely medical attention and to plan for the future.
This article delves into the complexities of early-stage dementia, exploring its common types and symptoms. It examines cognitive changes, behavioral shifts, and physical manifestations that may occur in the initial phases. Additionally, it discusses diagnosis methods, risk factors, and potential prevention strategies to provide a comprehensive overview of this condition. By shedding light on these aspects, readers can gain valuable insights to recognize and address early-stage dementia effectively.
What is Early Stage Dementia?
Definition
Early-stage dementia refers to the initial phase of a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. This term is used to describe a group of conditions characterized by a progressive deterioration of brain function [1]. While dementia is often associated with aging, it's important to note that it's not an inevitable or normal part of growing older [1].
Early-stage dementia can manifest in various forms, including Alzheimer's disease, which is one of the most common types. In this stage, most individuals can still function independently, engaging in social activities, volunteering, and even continuing to work [2]. However, subtle changes begin to occur, which may not be immediately obvious to others or even to the person experiencing them [1].
Prevalence
The prevalence of dementia is significant and growing. In 2023, it was estimated that 411,100 Australians were living with dementia, which is equivalent to 15 people per 1,000 Australians [1]. This number increases to 84 people per 1,000 Australians aged 65 and over [1]. Interestingly, nearly two-thirds (63%) of Australians with dementia are women [1].
It's crucial to recognize that dementia can also develop in younger individuals. In 2024, it's estimated that almost 29,000 people in Australia are living with younger onset dementia, which refers to any form of dementia diagnosed in a person under the age of 65 [3]. This figure is projected to increase to more than 41,000 by 2054 [3].
Impact on Daily Life
In the early stage of dementia, the impact on daily life can be subtle but noticeable. Forgetting recently learned information is a common sign, especially in Alzheimer's disease [4]. People may also have trouble with:
- Working with numbers or developing and following up on plans
- Completing familiar tasks at home, work, or in leisure
- Keep track of dates and seasons
- Spatial awareness and visual perception
- Finding the right words in conversation
- Misplacing things and not being able to go back
- Making decisions and judgments
- Withdrawing from work or social activities
- Experiencing mood and personality changes [4]
These changes can lead to difficulties in managing daily tasks. For instance, a person might struggle with following a familiar recipe, keeping track of monthly bills, or organizing a grocery list [4]. They may find it challenging to drive to a familiar location or remember the rules of a favorite game [4].
It's important to note that while a person in the early stage of dementia may experience these difficulties, they often still maintain a significant level of independence [2]. The challenges they face may be more apparent in complex tasks, such as managing a daily schedule or household budget [2].
For those supporting individuals with early-stage dementia, it's crucial to strike a balance between providing assistance and promoting independence. Care partners can help by offering cues and reminders to aid memory and by taking the initiative to determine how they can best support the person with dementia [2].
Understanding these early signs and their impact on daily life is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention. It allows individuals and their families to plan for the future together, including legal, financial, and long-term care considerations [2]. With proper support and understanding, people with early-stage dementia can continue to live well and maintain their independence for as long as possible.
.jpg.webp)
Common Types of Early-Stage Dementia
Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease is one of the most prevalent forms of early-stage dementia. In its initial phase, individuals may experience subtle changes in memory and cognitive function. One of the most common signs is forgetting recently learned information [4]. People with early-stage Alzheimer's might find it challenging to complete daily tasks, such as driving to a familiar location or organizing a grocery list [4].
As the disease progresses, individuals may face difficulties with:
- Following or joining conversations
- Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
- Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time
- Experiencing changes in vision, leading to problems with balance or reading [4]
Despite these challenges, people in the early stage of Alzheimer's can often function independently, continuing to drive, work, and participate in social activities [5]. However, they may feel as if they're experiencing memory lapses, such as forgetting familiar words or the location of everyday objects [5].
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia results from conditions that damage brain blood vessels, reducing their ability to supply the brain with necessary nutrition and oxygen [6]. Unlike Alzheimer's disease, the most significant symptoms of vascular dementia tend to involve speed of thinking and problem-solving rather than memory loss [6].
Common signs and symptoms of vascular dementia include:
- Confusion and trouble concentrating
- Reduced ability to organize thoughts or actions
- Difficulty with planning and communication
- Slowed thinking and problems with memory
- Restlessness and agitation
- Unsteady gait and frequent urge to urinate [6]
Vascular dementia can develop suddenly following a stroke (post-stroke dementia) or gradually over time [6]. It's often caused by conditions such as stroke, brain hemorrhage, or narrowed or chronically damaged brain blood vessels [6].
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia (LBD) is associated with abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain [7]. These deposits, known as Lewy bodies, cause problems with thinking, movement, behavior, and mood. [7].
Key features of LBD include:
- Variations in attention and alertness with fluctuating perception
- Recurrent visual hallucinations
- REM sleep behavior disorder
- Spontaneous changes in movement, including slowness, tremors, or rigidity [8]
LBD can be challenging to diagnose as its early symptoms often resemble those of other brain diseases or psychiatric disorders [7]. It typically affects people aged 50 or older, with a slightly higher prevalence in men [7].
It's important to note that these types of dementia can coexist or share symptoms. For instance, Lewy bodies are often found in Alzheimer's disease dementia and are a primary brain abnormality in Parkinson's disease dementia [8]. Similarly, vascular changes can contribute to symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, making it part of mixed dementia in many cases [9].
Early diagnosis is crucial for all types of dementia. Professional cognitive screening is recommended for those at high risk, including individuals who have had a stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or have risk factors for heart or blood vessel disease [9]. This allows for timely intervention and better management of symptoms, helping individuals maintain their quality of life for as long as possible.
.jpg.webp)
Cognitive Symptoms of Early Stage Dementia
Early-stage dementia has an impact on various cognitive functions, affecting a person's daily life and interactions. The following are key cognitive symptoms that often manifest in the early stages of dementia:
Memory Loss
One of the most noticeable signs of early-stage dementia is increased forgetfulness, particularly concerning recently learned information [4]. Individuals may find it challenging to remember important dates or events, often asking the same questions repeatedly [4]. They might increasingly rely on memory aids such as reminder notes or electronic devices, or turn to family members for assistance with tasks they previously managed independently [4].
Memory problems can manifest in various ways:
- Forgetting recently learned information
- Misplacing everyday items like keys and glasses
- Difficulty recalling a person's name immediately, though it may come to mind later
- Losing track of a conversation mid-sentence [10]
It's important to note that while memory loss is often the primary and initial symptom of early Alzheimer's disease, it may be less prominent in other forms of dementia, such as early frontotemporal dementia [11].
Difficulty with Planning and Problem-Solving
As dementia progresses, individuals may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow plans or work with numbers [4]. This can lead to:
- Trouble following familiar recipes
- Difficulty keeping track of monthly bills
- Problems concentrating on tasks
- Taking much longer to complete familiar activities [4]
These challenges can have a significant impact on daily life. For instance, someone might struggle to plan their day or make long-term plans [12]. They may find it hard to follow directions on a recipe or figure out how to pay their bills [12]. This decreased problem-solving ability can present dangers in their lives, affecting not only their ability to solve problems but also to follow outlined directions [12].
Language Problems
Language and communication difficulties are common in early-stage dementia. These problems can appear in several ways:
- Struggling to find the right word in conversation
- Difficulty following or joining a conversation
- Stopping mid-conversation, unsure how to continue
- Repeating themselves
- Struggling with vocabulary or using the wrong name for familiar objects [4]
Language deficits in dementia can include word-finding problems (anomia), sentence comprehension deficits, and lack of cohesion in discourse [13]. While the severity and nature of these language problems can vary depending on the type of dementia, they generally have an impact on how a person communicates [14].
It's worth noting that in some types of dementia, such as certain forms of frontotemporal dementia, language problems may be one of the earliest and most prominent symptoms [14]. However, the extent and progression of language difficulties can vary depending on the individual's personality, the type of dementia, and its stage [14].
These cognitive symptoms can fluctuate from day to day and may be exacerbated when the person is tired, in pain, or unwell [14]. As dementia progresses, these symptoms typically become more pronounced, affecting the individual's ability to function independently and interact with others.
.jpg.webp)
Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms
Early-stage dementia often brings about significant changes in a person's behavior and psychological state. Understanding these symptoms is crucial to providing appropriate care and support. Dealing with these changes can be difficult for the individual and their loved ones.
Mood Changes
People living with dementia often experience notable mood fluctuations. These changes can be rapid and seemingly unprovoked, with individuals shifting from calm to tears to anger without apparent reason [1]. Such mood swings can be particularly distressing for family members and caregivers.
In the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, patients may exhibit increased irritability, anxiety, and depression [15]. These behavioral and personality changes are often the catalyst for families to seek medical help [15]. As the condition progresses, individuals may become extremely confused, suspicious, fearful, or overly dependent on a family member [15].
It's important to note that while everyone experiences occasional moodiness, the difference with dementia lies in the frequency and intensity of these mood swings [15]. Some individuals may become more withdrawn or lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed [15]. Others might become more outgoing or disinhibited [1].
Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety is a common symptom in people with dementia, particularly in those who still have good insight and awareness of their condition [16]. It can exacerbate other dementia symptoms, especially those affecting attention, planning, organizing, and decision-making [16].
Anxiety in dementia can manifest in various forms, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorder
- Irrational fears or phobias
- Social anxiety
- Obsessive thoughts [16]
In the early stages of dementia, anxiety often stems from worries about coping with the condition and concerns about the future [16]. As the condition progresses, anxiety may be more related to confusion or disorientation [16].
Depression is another common problem for people with dementia [17]. It can be challenging to distinguish from apathy, as some symptoms overlap. However, depression typically involves more negative feelings, such as sadness or guilt [17]. Common symptoms of depression in dementia include:
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
- Irritability and prone to angry outbursts
- Self-neglect
- Sleep problems [17]
It's worth noting that older adults may experience slightly different symptoms of depression compared to younger individuals. They are more likely to feel agitated, have health anxiety, and experience physical symptoms like aches and pains [17].
Apathy
Apathy Apathy is a common symptom in most types of madness, particularly during the after stages of the condition( 18). It's characterized by a loss of provocation or drive, frequently described as appearing to' give up' or withdraw into a shell [18].
People with apathy may:
- Sit for long periods without engaging in any activity
- Rely on others to suggest and organize activities
- Show less interest in joining conversations or meeting new people
- Appear uninterested or detached from personal events or news
- Lack of energy or motivation for routine tasks
- Sleep excessively during the day [18]
Apathy can develop gradually as an emotional response to the difficulties of living with dementia [18]. As everyday tasks become more challenging, individuals may lose confidence and stop trying to do things independently [18]. In some cases, apathy may also result from damage to certain parts of the brain involved in motivation [18].
It's crucial to approach these behavioral and psychological symptoms with patience and understanding. While they can be challenging to manage, recognizing them as part of the condition rather than intentional behavior can help in providing appropriate support and care for individuals with early-stage dementia.
.jpg.webp)
Physical Symptoms in Early Stage Dementia
Changes in Motor Skills
Early-stage dementia can have a significant impact on an individual's motor skills, affecting both fine and gross motor functions. This decline in motor abilities can be particularly distressing for those experiencing it, as it often leads to a gradual loss of independence.
Fine motor skills, which involve the coordination of small muscles in movements usually involving the hands and fingers, are often affected. People with early-stage dementia may struggle with everyday tasks that require precision, such as using utensils, brushing their teeth, or tying shoelaces [19]. These difficulties can be frustrating and may contribute to a sense of loss of independence.
Gross motor skills, which involve larger movements of the arms, legs, and torso, can also be affected. This can manifest as:
- Balance and coordination issues: Dementia can disrupt a person's sense of balance and coordination, leading to unsteadiness while walking and increasing the risk of falls and injuries [19].
- Reduced mobility: As the condition progresses, individuals may become less inclined to engage in physical activities, which can further weaken their muscles and lead to a decline in overall mobility [19].
Research suggests that changes in motor function may occur even before the clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), during its preclinical phase [20]. Studies have shown that both the level and rate of motor decline are associated with adverse health outcomes, including incident AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), as well as the rate of cognitive decline [20].
Sleep Disturbances
Sleep problems are common in people with early-stage dementia, affecting approximately one-quarter of adults with the condition [21]. It is possible that these disturbances can manifest themselves in various ways:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Insomnia with difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep
- Frequent nighttime awakenings
- Premature morning awakenings [22]
A phenomenon known as "sundowning" may also occur, where individuals experience confusion, agitation, anxiety, and aggression during the evening or night [22]. This can lead to night wandering, which poses safety risks.
Factors contributing to sleep disturbances in dementia include:
- En fin de journée on peux sentir des epuisement mental et physique
- Changes in the body clock
- Reduced need for sleep, is common among older adults
- Disorientation
- Reduced lighting and increased shadows cause confusion and fear [22]
Obstructive sleep apnea is also more common in people with Alzheimer's disease, potentially causing breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep [22].
Sensory Changes
Early-stage dementia can also affect various sensory functions, including vision, hearing, and smell.
Vision:
- About one-third of older adults have some form of vision problems or loss by age 65 [23].
- Studies using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) have shown differences in retinal nerve fiber thickness between cognitively healthy older adults and people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias [23].
- Vision impairment has been identified as a risk factor for dementia, with estimates suggesting that nearly 100,000 dementia cases in the U.S. could potentially be prevented with existing vision treatments [23].
Hearing:
- Nearly 50% of people older than 75 have disabling hearing loss [23].
- Hearing loss has been ranked as the single largest potentially modifiable risk factor for dementia [23].
- Untreated hearing loss can force the brain to work harder, overwhelming the compensating brain networks normally used for memory and thinking, an effect known as cognitive load or effortful listening [23].
Smell:
- Anosmia, the decline or loss of smell, can significantly impact the quality of life [23].
- Studies have shown that poorer scores on smell sensitivity tests predicted mild cognitive impairment and had connexions to dementia-related pathology seen in brain scans [23].
- Loss of smell sensitivity has been correlated with biomarkers of Alzheimer's, including the thinning of tissue in brain regions associated with memory [23].
Understanding these physical symptoms is crucial for early detection and management of dementia. It's important to note that these changes may occur gradually and can vary from person to person. Regular medical check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers can help in identifying and addressing these symptoms effectively.
Diagnosis of Early Stage Dementia
The diagnosis of early-stage dementia involves a comprehensive approach that combines medical history, physical examination, cognitive assessments, and brain imaging. This multifaceted process helps healthcare professionals accurately identify the presence of dementia and determine its underlying cause.
Medical History and Physical Examination
The first step in diagnosing early-stage dementia is a thorough review of the patient's medical history and a complete physical examination. Healthcare professionals need information about the earliest symptoms and their progression over time [24]. Patients are encouraged to keep a written record of these symptoms, including their frequency and duration, to share during the medical visit [24].
During the initial consultation, the doctor will typically:
- Review past medical history and current medications [24]
- Discuss the changes noticed in memory, thinking, behavior, and mood [25]
- Assess the impact of cognitive decline on activities of daily living [24]
- Conduct a comprehensive physical examination, focusing on cardiovascular health and neurological function [24]
The physical examination is similar to a routine check-up but with an emphasis on measuring vital signs, listening to the heart and major blood vessels, and evaluating eye movement speed and gait [24]. This helps identify any underlying health conditions that may contribute to cognitive symptoms.
Cognitive Assessments
Cognitive assessments are crucial in measuring various thinking abilities, such as memory, concentration, spatial awareness, problem-solving, and language skills [25]. These tests help determine which cognitive abilities are affected and to what extent, aiding in the diagnosis of dementia.
Common cognitive assessment tools include:
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE): This is the most frequently used test for cognitive changes due to Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders [25].
- Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog): A more thorough test than the MMSE, suitable for people with mild symptoms [25].
- Neuropsychological tests: These detailed assessments measure thinking, memory, and other skills, typically taking up to two hours to complete [25].
- General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition (GPCOG) and Clock Drawing Test: These are among the most commonly used tests in primary care settings [26].
Healthcare professionals may choose the most suitable tests based on the patient's specific situation and the healthcare setting.
Brain Imaging
Brain imaging plays a vital role in the diagnosis of early-stage dementia by helping to rule out other conditions and identify specific changes in the brain. The most common types of brain scans used in dementia diagnosis are:
- Computed Tomography (CT) scans: These X-ray-based scans can show brain atrophy, strokes, and other structural changes [27].
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI scans provide detailed images of brain structures and can detect atrophy, small strokes, and subtle ischemia [27].
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans: These scans measure specific brain activity and can detect abnormal protein deposits associated with Alzheimer's disease [28].
Specific PET scans include:
- Amyloid PET scans: These measure abnormal deposits of beta-amyloid protein, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease [28].
- Tau PET scans: These detect abnormal accumulation of tau protein, which forms tangles in nerve cells in various dementias [28].
- Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET scans: These measure energy use in the brain and can help differentiate between types of dementia [28].
It's important to note that no single test can definitively diagnose dementia. The assessment process may take three to six months and involves a combination of behavioral, functional, and psychosocial evaluations, along with radiological and laboratory tests [26]. This comprehensive approach helps healthcare professionals make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan for individuals with early-stage dementia.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Age and Genetics
Dementia is not a natural part of aging, but age remains the biggest risk factor for its development. As a person gets older, their risk of developing dementia increases significantly. For individuals aged between 65 and 69, approximately 2 in every 100 people have dementia. This risk roughly doubles every five years, with about 33 in every 100 people over 90 having dementia [29].
Genetics also play a role in dementia risk. The Apolipoprotein E gene, particularly type 4, has an impact on the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease. Having at least one type 4 gene increases the risk, with two type 4 genes presenting an even higher risk. However, it's important to note that even with two type 4 genes, half of all people aged 85 don't have symptoms of Alzheimer's disease [30].
In rare cases, specific gene mutations can cause familial forms of dementia. Familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD), caused by mutations in the presenilin 1, presenilin 2, or amyloid precursor protein genes, affects fewer than 100 people in Australia at any given time [30]. Similarly, familial frontotemporal dementia, caused by mutations in the MAPT or progranulin genes, accounts for only 10 to 15 percent of frontotemporal dementia cases [30].
Lifestyle Factors
While age and genetics are non-modifiable risk factors, several lifestyle choices can influence dementia risk. Studies show that dementia risk is lowest in people who adopt healthy behaviors in mid-life (aged 40-65) [29]. These behaviors include:
- Regular mental, physical, and social activity
- Not smoking
- Moderate alcohol consumption
- Maintaining a healthy diet
Physical inactivity has an impact on heart health, lung function, and blood circulation, increasing the risk of conditions like heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, which are all risk factors for dementia [29]. Smoking damages blood vessels in the brain, causing inflammation and reducing oxygen supply to nerve cells [29].
The diet also plays a crucial role. An unhealthy diet increases the risk of high blood pressure, a known risk factor for dementia. A balanced diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole-grain cereals, fish, low-fat dairy, beans, and pulses while limiting red and processed meats [29].
Preventive Measures
Research suggests that up to 40% of all dementia cases could potentially be prevented or delayed by modifying lifestyle factors and preventing chronic diseases [31]. Here are some key preventive measures:
- Control high blood pressure: Effective long-term treatment of high blood pressure can reduce dementia risk [32].
- Manage blood sugar: Higher than normal blood sugar levels can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia [33].
- Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of related health problems such as diabetes and heart disease [33].
- Stay physically active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week [33].
- Keep mentally active: Engage in activities like reading, playing board games, learning new skills, or volunteering [33].
- Stay socially connected: Social engagement can prevent isolation and loneliness, which are linked to higher risks of cognitive decline [33].
- Treat hearing problems: Hearing loss may affect cognition and make social interaction more difficult [33].
- Get adequate sleep: Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night [33].
- Prevent head injuries: Take steps to avoid falls and wear protective gear when necessary [33].
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can lead to various health issues and increase dementia risk [33].
By adopting these preventive measures and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of developing dementia and promote overall brain health.
Conclusion
Early-stage dementia has a profound influence on individuals and their loved ones, affecting cognitive abilities, behavior, and physical functions. Understanding the various types, symptoms, and risk factors associated with this condition is crucial to providing timely support and care. The comprehensive approach to diagnosis, involving medical history, cognitive assessments, and brain imaging, plays a vital role in the early detection and management of dementia.
To wrap up, while age and genetics are non-modifiable risk factors, adopting a healthy lifestyle can potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia. This includes staying physically and mentally active, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing chronic health conditions. By raising awareness about early-stage dementia and promoting preventive measures, we can work towards improving the quality of life for those affected and potentially delay or prevent the onset of this condition in others.
FAQs
How can one determine the stage of dementia in an individual?
In the moderate stage of dementia, individuals may experience significant cognitive impairment and mood swings. The severe or late stages, known as stages 6 and 7, involve severe cognitive decline and the loss of physical abilities.
What does early-stage dementia entail?
During the early stage of Alzheimer's, a person might still maintain a level of independence, continuing to drive, work, and participate in social activities. However, they may start noticing memory lapses, such as forgetting familiar words or the locations of everyday objects.
What are the three golden rules to follow when interacting with someone with dementia?
The three golden rules for interacting with someone with dementia are: do not ask questions; listen to the expert; and do not contradict. These guidelines can significantly improve interactions with dementia patients, although they are not sufficient to maintain well-being indefinitely.
What is often the most noticeable initial symptom of dementia?
Memory loss is typically the most apparent early symptom of dementia. However, experiencing memory loss alone does not necessarily mean a person has dementia.
https://www.marketingproduct.xyz/2024/08/understanding-early-stage-dementia.html
References
[1] - https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-early-signs
[2] - https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviours/early-stage
[3] - https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/dementia-facts-and-figures
[4] - https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs
[5] - https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages
[6] - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vascular-dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20378793
[7] - https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/lewy-body-dementia/what-lewy-body-dementia-causes-symptoms-and-treatments
[8] - https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/dementia-with-lewy-bodies
[9] - https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/vascular-dementia
[10] - https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-living-dementia/managing-changes-your-abilities
[11] - https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/how-dementia-progresses/early-stages-dementia
[12] - https://www.thegablesfamily.com/symptoms-of-dementia-decreased-problem-solving-ability/
[13] - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2976058/
[14] - https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/dementia-and-language
[15] - https://www.alz.org/media/cacentral/dementia-care-30-personality-changes-in-dementia.pdf
[16] - https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/anxiety-dementia
[17] - https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/depression-dementia
[18] - https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/apathy-dementia
[19] - https://www.summerhouseseniorliving.com/senior-living-blog/the-effects-of-dementia-in-seniors-motor-skills/
[20] - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3121966/
[21] - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3062259/
[22] - https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047832
[23] - https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/take-care-your-senses-science-behind-sensory-loss-and-dementia-risk
[24] - https://www.alzint.org/u/World-Alzheimer-Report-2021-Chapter-03.pdf
[25] - https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/testing-and-diagnosis
[26] - https://www.dementia.org.au/professionals/assessment-and-diagnosis-dementia
[27] - https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/brain-and-nerves/dementia/diagnosis/brain-scans.html
[28] - https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-symptoms-and-diagnosis/how-biomarkers-help-diagnose-dementia
[29] - https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/sites/default/files/pdf/factsheet_risk_factors_for_dementia.pdf
[30] - https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/genetics-and-dementia
[31] - https://www.health.com/risk-factors-early-dementia-8422790
[32] - https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia-reducing-your-risk
[33] - https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/can-i-prevent-dementia