Dementia affects more than memory. It shifts how a person communicates, reasons, and navigates daily life. For many families, the first signs of change can be confusing or even easy to overlook. But they’re also the first signs that a person needs more help than they’re receiving.
Dementia typically affects people over the age of 65. However, in rare cases, it can develop as early as the 30s or 40s. This is uncommon, but it is still possible, so it’s essential to learn what signs are normal—and what signs are not.
How Does Dementia Affect the Brain?
Dementia isn’t just one condition. This is a term used to describe a group of symptoms caused by changes in the brain. Eventually, these reduce a person’s ability to think clearly, remember things, and manage daily routines. These worsen over time, and they’re not a normal part of aging.
As dementia damages more parts of the brain, it causes:
- Communication, such as forgetting words or losing track of conversations
- Memory, especially short-term memory
- Behavior, including shifts in personality or social habits
- Decision-making, like struggling with everyday choices
- Problem-solving, such as getting confused by familiar tasks
These symptoms can look different from one person to another. But over time, they tend to interfere with daily life and independence. While age can influence dementia risk factors, it’s just one piece of the puzzle—injuries, genetics, and overall brain health also play a role.
Common Types of Dementia
While dementia is an umbrella term, it’s made up of several distinct conditions. Each type has its own causes, symptoms, and risk factors.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most widespread form of dementia, affecting millions of Americans. It develops when abnormal proteins build up in the brain and interfere with how cells communicate.
This type of dementia typically develops after age 65, but in rare cases, it can appear in the 30s or 40s. Early symptoms often include memory loss and difficulty completing familiar tasks.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD)
Frontotemporal dementia tends to affect people between the ages of 45 and 65. It’s caused by nerve damage in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. There are several types of frontotemporal dementia, and symptoms depend on which areas are affected.
One form changes behavior and personality, while another impacts speech and language. Because symptoms vary so much, early and accurate diagnosis is key.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is linked to strokes, blood clots, or other issues that limit oxygen flow to the brain. It’s the second most common type of dementia.
This condition can cause problems with concentration, memory, and emotional regulation. Some people notice symptoms suddenly, while others experience a slower decline over time.
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy body dementia is caused by abnormal deposits known as Lewy bodies. These build up in the brain and disrupt brain health and normal brain functions.
There are two types: dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia. Both types can cause memory loss, hallucinations, and movement-related issues like tremors or stiffness.
The Link Between Dementia & Age
Most people think of dementia as something that only happens to older adults. And in many cases, that’s true—most diagnoses happen after age 65. But early-onset dementia is very real, even if it’s extremely rare.
Some types of dementia, like frontotemporal dementia, are more likely to appear earlier in life. Huntington’s disease, a genetic condition, can also lead to symptoms at a younger age. Other risk factors—such as brain injuries, strokes, or family history—may increase the likelihood of developing cognitive decline earlier than expected.
Age remains a significant dementia risk factor, but it’s not the only thing to watch. A healthy lifestyle and regular health checkups are key to catching this condition early.
Recognizing the Early Signs of Dementia
Recognizing the early signs of dementia can help families take action before symptoms become more serious. So, what signs should you look for?
The early signs of dementia include:
- Misplacing items or the inability to retrace steps
- Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations
- Personality changes or avoiding social situations
- Struggling with vocabulary or following conversations
- Trouble completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Poor judgment or unusual financial decisions
If you notice these symptoms in a loved one, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider. An early diagnosis can help you explore your options—like memory care—to help maintain your loved one’s quality of life.
When to Consider Memory Care for a Loved One
As dementia progresses, even simple tasks can become overwhelming. That’s entirely normal, but that doesn’t mean your family has to struggle. If your loved one is living with memory loss or cognitive decline, reach out to our team at The Legacy of Delano. We can help.
Here in our community, we offer structured daily routines, safety-focused environments, and trained caregivers who understand how to support those with memory loss. We’re proud to offer personalized support designed to meet your loved one where they are. To learn more, schedule a tour with us today! Let’s talk about how we can support your family.
