Forgetting where you left your keys or momentarily blanking on a name is a common, often frustrating, part of life. However, experts warn that confusing these everyday lapses with the symptoms of dementia, a devastating condition, can delay vital support for hundreds of thousands across the UK.
The Stark Reality of Dementia in the UK
Dementia should never be dismissed as a natural part of ageing. According to the Alzheimer's Society, it is currently the UK's biggest killer. Around one million people are living with the condition, but alarmingly, approximately one in three of them has not received a formal diagnosis. Looking to the future, one in three people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime.
While typical forgetfulness is usually temporary and linked to stress or tiredness, dementia is different. It is an umbrella term for symptoms caused by diseases that damage the brain. Crucially, it is progressive, meaning symptoms gradually worsen over time, affecting memory, thinking, communication and the ability to perform daily tasks.
Key Signs That Go Beyond Forgetfulness
Understanding the distinction between normal memory slips and potential dementia symptoms is a critical first step. The Alzheimer's Society highlights a pattern of changes that disrupt daily life:
Memory loss that affects daily life, such as forgetting recently learned information or important dates repeatedly.
Difficulty with planning or problem-solving, which can make following a familiar recipe or managing monthly bills a significant challenge.
Confusion with time or place, including losing track of seasons, dates, or even where one is.
Vision and perception issues, like new problems with reading, judging distance, or recognising faces.
Language problems, such as struggling to follow or join a conversation, or repeating questions.
Changes in mood and personality, where a person may become anxious, withdrawn, suspicious, or easily upset.
The Critical Importance of an Early Diagnosis
Seeking help early can transform a person's journey with dementia. An early diagnosis unlocks access to available treatments, provides essential advice and emotional support, and helps people plan for the future. It enables individuals to maintain their independence for longer and can help families avoid reaching a crisis point.
Despite these benefits, the diagnosis gap means many are navigating their symptoms alone. "Without diagnosis, families often struggle to understand what is happening," says the Alzheimer's Society. "Support services and planning opportunities are missed."
The society urges anyone concerned about persistent symptoms to come forward. "Dementia requires understanding, compassion and timely action. By learning the signs and encouraging diagnosis, we can help improve lives."
If you are worried about dementia, you can contact the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.
