SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR Dementia (Symptoms of dementia)

The following is from a report by GERALDINE LING in Mind Your body of the Straits times dated 18 February 2010, Thursday.

SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR

If you are worried that someone you know is showing signs of dementia, use these guidelines to check whether medical help is needed. Dr Philip Yap, a consultant at the department of geriatric medicine at Alexandra Hospital, said that these are some symptoms that may indicate underlying dementia:

· Short-term memory loss: People with dementia may often misplace important items or forget appointments. A useful indicator is the gradual loss of ability to perform what they used to do well.

· Time and place disorientation: People with dementia may lose their way and forget how to return home.

· Poor or decreased judgment: For example, poor decision-making.

· Changes in personality: They may become easily anxious and irritable.

· Decreased interest or ability to perform familiar tasks and hobbies. · Loss of initiative and a tendency to isolate oneself socially.