What to know about dementia in older adults

Changes may include repeating questions, losing track of time, difficulty finding words, trouble managing familiar tasks, misplacing items, or changes in judgement and mood. Dementia is not a normal or inevitable part of ageing. Different conditions can cause similar symptoms, and hearing problems, sleep disturbance, depression, infection, medication effects, or thyroid problems may also affect thinking. An assessment usually considers the timeline, daily function, medicines, physical health, and a cognitive examination.

Write down examples of changes, when they began, and how they affect cooking, finances, medicines, driving, or personal care. Attend a medical appointment with a trusted person who can describe day-to-day changes. Keep routines predictable, use labels or calendars, improve lighting, and reduce trip hazards. Support independence while checking safety, consent, nutrition, and the person’s ability to manage important decisions.

Seek urgent assessment for sudden confusion, a new weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe headache, a fall with injury, fever, or marked drowsiness. Arrange a routine appointment for gradual memory or thinking changes that interfere with daily tasks. Escalate concerns about wandering, unsafe driving, missed medicines, repeated falls, or difficulty eating because these can require a practical safety plan.

Ask what causes should be checked, which medicines or health problems may contribute, and what information to bring to an assessment. Discuss home safety, driving, legal planning, support for carers, and how to respond if confusion changes suddenly.