You might be able to spot early signs of dementia while watching TV
A health expert has told how an ‘early’ warning sign of dementia could be spotted when your watching TV.
Dementia is a group of symptoms associated with the ongoing decline of brain functioning, the NHS says.
As of 2024, there were thought to be about 982,000 people with dementia in the UK.
But the Alzheimer’s Society says that more than a third of people with the condition do not have a diagnosis.
According to neurology consultant Dr Tim Rittman, dementia can be difficult to tell apart from other conditions during the early stages of the condition.
He said: “An early diagnosis means that people with dementia and their loved ones can plan for the future, access the right care and support, and consider the option of taking part in research.”
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Writing for Alzheimer’s Research UK, Dr Rittman added: “When it first starts, dementia’s signs and symptoms are often mild and not that easy to spot.
“Mild forgetfulness, changes to perception or the way we speak can be early indications that something is wrong.
“It’s really important to know that these kinds of symptoms can have other causes, such as low mood, or the side-effects of medications.
“But they could be early signs of dementia.”
Problems with memory and thinking is often an early sign of dementia.
Forgetfulness can be ‘mild’ early on, affecting memory for places or things that have happened in the past.
People with dementia may even find it difficult watching television, Dr Rittman said.
He said: “You may notice someone asking the same question in quick succession, or struggling to remember the name of objects around the house.
“People may find they struggle to concentrate on daily tasks, or they may find following the storyline of a TV programme difficult for example.
“Another early sign is changes to perception and awareness.
“People experiencing memory and thinking problems are often less aware of these early changes than people around them, or have less insight into how these symptoms are disrupting their everyday life.”
Other signs can include changes in communication, difficulties with planning and problem solving, mood changes, visual disturbances and changes to the way you move.