Dementia in older adults

A person may repeat questions, lose track of dates, struggle with familiar tasks, misplace items, have trouble finding words or become less confident in unfamiliar places. Changes can also affect judgement, mood, sleep and social behaviour. Dementia is not a normal or inevitable part of ageing, and similar problems can be linked with medicines, infection, poor sleep, hearing loss, depression or other health conditions.

The pattern, speed and effect of change matter. A clinician uses the person’s history, an examination, medication review and memory tests; further tests may be considered when needed.

Use calm, short explanations and allow extra time for replies. Keep keys, medicines and appointments in consistent places, improve lighting, and label rooms or drawers if helpful. Involve the person in decisions while they can express preferences. Record examples of changes, when they began and what makes them better or worse. The Dementia page provides broader condition information.

Arrange a medical appointment when changes are persistent, worsening or interfering with cooking, finances, medicines, personal care or driving. Seek urgent help for sudden confusion, a new one-sided weakness, trouble speaking, a severe headache, a fall with injury or sudden loss of consciousness. Rapid change may have a treatable cause and should not be attributed to ageing.

Ask what causes should be checked, whether medicines or hearing affect thinking, which daily activities need support, and how the family can share care safely. Ask how results will be explained and when follow-up should occur.