Occasional forgetfulness can occur with normal ageing. Dementia, however, causes persistent changes in memory, thinking, behaviour, and daily functioning. Common early signs of dementia include: • Repeatedly asking the same questions • Forgetting recent events or information • Difficulty completing familiar tasks • Confusion about time, dates, or familiar places • Problems finding words or following conversations • Frequently misplacing objects • Difficulty managing money, medicines, or appointments • Poor judgment or unusual decisions • Withdrawal from hobbies or social activities • Changes in mood, behaviour, or personality A single symptom does not necessarily indicate dementia. Memory and concentration problems may also occur due to depression, anxiety, poor sleep, thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies, infections, or medication effects. Symptoms may differ according to the underlying condition. Alzheimer’s disease often begins with recent memory loss, while vascular dementia may affect planning and attention. Frontotemporal dementia may initially cause behavioural, personality, or language changes. Understanding the early warning signs of dementia can help families distinguish persistent cognitive decline from occasional age-related forgetfulness. Dr. Aditya Patil Consultant Psychiatrist 📍 Mana Sajjana Clinic, Pimple Saudagar, Pune 📞 9975573437