Spotting the Signs of Dementia: Why Starting the Conversation Early Matters
Learn how to spot early signs of dementia and start the conversation with loved ones. Early awareness helps families plan, support, and care with confidence.
When someone you love starts to forget small things, repeat stories, or seem a little more confused than usual, it can be easy to brush it off as “just getting older.” But sometimes, these early changes may be signs of something more — such as dementia.
We understand how difficult it can be to talk about these changes. Starting the conversation about memory loss or confusion isn’t easy. But beginning that discussion early can make all the difference — for your loved one, for your family, and for their future care.
Recognising the Early Signs of Dementia
Dementia affects everyone differently, but there are a few common early signs to look out for:
Memory problems – Forgetting recent events, repeating questions, or struggling to recall familiar names or places.
Difficulty with daily tasks – Trouble managing bills, following recipes, or keeping track of appointments.
Changes in mood or behaviour – Becoming withdrawn, anxious, irritable, or unusually emotional.
Language and communication difficulties – Finding it hard to follow a conversation or remember simple words.
Confusion about time or place – Getting lost in familiar areas or being unsure of the day or season.
If you notice these changes — even if they seem small — it’s worth seeking advice from a GP. Early diagnosis doesn’t just help confirm what’s happening; it opens the door to valuable support, information, and planning.
Why Starting the Conversation Is So Hard
Talking about dementia can feel overwhelming. You may worry about upsetting your loved one or fear how they’ll react. It’s natural to want to protect them — or even yourself — from facing what might lie ahead.
But waiting too long can make things harder later. Many families tell us they wish they’d spoken up sooner. Early conversations allow time for understanding, planning, and ensuring your loved one’s wishes are heard and respected.
Why Early Conversations Matter
Better Access to Support
An early diagnosis means your loved one can access dementia support groups, local drop-ins, memory clinics, and community activities. These can improve wellbeing and help families feel less alone.Practical Planning
Discussing care options early means your loved one can be part of decisions — from daily routines to future care preferences. It helps families avoid crisis decisions later on.Financial and Legal Preparedness
Setting up Power of Attorney, managing finances, or exploring council support is much easier when done early.Peace of Mind
Knowing what to expect, and having a plan in place, can reduce anxiety for everyone involved.
How Home Instead Braintree Can Help
At Home Instead Braintree, we specialise in personalised dementia care at home — supporting clients to live safely, comfortably, and independently for as long as possible.
Our Care Professionals receive advanced dementia training, helping them to:
Recognise emotional and physical signs of change.
Use gentle, reassuring communication.
Maintain familiar routines that bring comfort and stability.
Encourage activities that support memory and wellbeing.
Whether you’re just starting to notice the signs or are already caring for a loved one with dementia, we’re here to guide you — every step of the way.
Take the First Step
If you’ve noticed changes in your loved one’s memory or behaviour, start the conversation today. It’s not about labelling — it’s about understanding, planning, and helping them live well.
Reach out to your GP for advice or contact our Home Instead Braintree team to learn more about our dementia care services and community resources.
Call us on 01376 319 100
