Dementia is a brain-altering disease. It is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. There is no specific symptom related to dementia, but rather a group of symptoms associated with it, such as memory loss, impaired thinking, reasoning, and social abilities.

When the brain cells get damaged, it interferes with the person's ability to communicate properly. There could be many reasons associated with dementia, some being strokes, injuries, or even long-term alcohol use, among others. The most common types of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease (most common), Lewy body dementia, Frontotemporal dementia, and Vascular dementia (caused by reduced/less blood flow to the brain).

The onset of dementia can occur as early as the age of 40. But what triggers this early onset?

Let us understand.

Memory loss


The very first symptom of dementia or Alzheimer’s is memory loss, and it is one of the most common signs of this brain disease. In this stage, people tend to forget things more often than usual. People suffering from early dementia often tend to forget important things, such as events or dates like anniversaries or birthdays. This is among the most common symptoms of dementia in people in their 40s and 50s. This is why it is suggested that memory aids and brain exercises are a must to avoid dementia.

Struggling to carry out routine tasks

According to several studies, 8-10 years is considered the average life expectancy of people with late-onset Alzheimer’s. This means that life expectancy for early onset will also be around this same number. Difficulty in completing tasks is one of the four major warning signs of dementia. Some people may also experience problems focusing on one task. When experiencing this symptom, people might forget the routes that they have commonly traveled.


Changes in personality and mood


People with dementia may get confused, depressed for no reason, anxious, and fearful at times. These are the most common symptoms of dementia in women. These mood swings are not normal; people suffering from this symptom will have aggravated mood swings, which will affect the patient’s personality.

Misplacing items often

Misplacing or losing things is also a common symptom when it comes to early dementia. Dementia creates difficulty in retracing steps to find the lost item. Not only may patients also blame others for stealing their things. If you know somebody suffering from dementia or early-onset dementia, it is advisable to keep important things like an ATM card or car keys away.

Confusing time and place

People suffering from this disease tend to misunderstand the passage of time, often losing track of it. This is also a common symptom for patients with dementia. They suddenly tend to forget where they are, what they were doing, or how they got there. It is advisable not to leave a dementia patient alone outdoors.

How to identify these signs in your 40s?

This is such a disease that it progresses with time and is even more fatal. Early detection is crucial to slow that progression down and improve the quality of life. If you or your loved ones start to experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional immediately for assessment.

This disease may have no cure but with timely detection and minor lifestyle adjustments, its impact can be managed.