Signs of dementia in men

A man may miss appointments, lose confidence with finances or work routines, repeat stories, become lost on a known route, or struggle to use familiar tools. Some people show irritability, apathy, social withdrawal, or behaviour that seems out of character. Urinary incontinence can occur for several reasons and does not by itself indicate dementia. The pattern, progression, and effect on everyday function matter more than one isolated lapse.

Keep a dated record of specific changes and ask a trusted relative or friend whether they have noticed the same pattern. Arrange a GP consultation and take a medicine list, medical history, and examples of safety concerns. A clinician can review hearing, mood, sleep, medicines, physical health, and thinking skills; some reversible problems can resemble dementia. Use calm, concrete language and preserve the person’s independence where it is safe.

Get urgent medical help for sudden confusion, new weakness, difficulty speaking, collapse, severe headache, or a rapid change after an injury or medication change. Seek prompt advice if memory or judgement creates immediate danger with driving, wandering, cooking, falls, or taking medicines. Gradual changes also warrant a timely appointment when they affect work, relationships, hygiene, or managing money.

Ask which symptoms need urgent review, what tests may identify reversible causes, and how to support decision-making about driving, work, finances, and personal care. Ask whether a mental health assessment could help if low mood, anxiety, or withdrawal is part of the picture.