A leading dementia specialist has outlined five key early warning signs of early-onset dementia that go beyond the memory lapses most people associate with the condition.
Early-onset dementia (also known as younger-onset dementia), refers to dementia that develops before the age of 65, affecting people in their 30, 40s, and 50s.
The condition, which refers to a range of symptoms caused by various brain-impairing diseases, can include issues with problem-solving, language, and changes in behavior that typically worsen over time.
Those affected may also have problems with movement, balance, and coordination, the Alzheimer's society shared.
Professor June Andrews, a dementia authority and writer, told MailOnline that while memory loss is often the hallmark of dementia in older adults, early-onset dementia is “different in nature".
She explained that the “most pronounced symptom” can vary based on a person’s “lifestyle and responsibilities,” identifying five common indicators of the condition that people should watch for.
While occasional forgetfulness is common and can often be linked to menopause in women, it is not always a sign of dementia.
However, Andrews said that persistent difficulties could indicate a problem: “This could look like continually having difficulty understanding instructions or completing assignments, much like when you’re sleep deprived, but all the time.”
She added that if simple tasks that were once easy now consistently take longer to complete, it could also be an early sign of dementia.
Another red flag, according to the professor, is suddenly struggling with numbers or mental calculations.
She noted that while numeracy skills vary from person to person, and some professions require more numerical skills than others, a decline could indicate early-onset dementia.
“For instance, a mathematician with young-onset dementia may still be better at math than his doctor, but he might have lost some of his mental numeracy,” she explained,
"But, just like forgetting words, suddenly being unable to do basic mental maths can be an early sign of the disease," she added.
Professor Andrews also highlighted that people with frontotemporal dementia - a type affecting the brain’s frontal lobe - may begin swearing more frequently or making inappropriate comments without realizing it.
Those affected “increasingly lose the ability to discriminate between what is and isn’t acceptable to say,” she said, explaining that this could include swearing in front of children or making rude remarks.
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Skipping major steps in daily routines is another sign to watch for. Professor Andrews explained: “When you’re getting ready for work, there’s a certain order to the steps in which you do things, whether that’s getting out of bed, getting dressed, brushing your teeth or making breakfast.”
However, those experiencing cognitive processing issues “may start to miss steps out or get them in the wrong order,” with some people even being spotted outdoors in their pajamas, she noted.
This decline in cognitive processing can also affect work life, as meeting deadlines and managing multiple tasks becomes “really hard” for those living with the condition.
The health professional emphasized that dementia symptoms can vary widely between individuals: “Each person is different.”
If you or someone you care about is concerned about dementia, she advises making an appointment with your local healthcare provider.