New UK survey data shows most people delay action after noticing dementia symptoms, often because they assume it is “just ageing,” losing precious time for diagnosis and support.
Forgetting a name. Losing your train of thought. Struggling to follow a conversation. Many of us shrug these moments off as part of getting older. But according to dementia experts, that assumption may be one of the biggest reasons people miss the earliest signs of the disease.
A recent survey by Alzheimer’s Society found that only 15% of people take immediate action after noticing possible dementia symptoms. For many, the warning signs are hiding in plain sight.
Key Takeaways
- Early dementia symptoms often look like normal ageing
- Only one-third of people speak up within the first month
- 23% delay seeing a doctor for more than six months
- Fear and stigma stop many from seeking help
Why Early Dementia Is So Often Missed
Dementia does not begin suddenly. It develops gradually, with subtle changes in memory, thinking, mood, and movement. These changes can easily overlap with common age-related issues like hearing loss, tiredness, or stress.
That overlap creates doubt.
According to the survey of 1,100 UK adults, one in three people who noticed dementia symptoms in themselves or a loved one kept their concerns to themselves for over a month. Even more worrying, 11% admitted they never shared their concerns at all, despite recognising something was wrong.
Fear Is a Major Barrier to Diagnosis
The data reveals that silence is not just about confusion. It is also about fea
- 16% said they actively avoided seeking a diagnosis
- 44% worried family or carers would start “talking down” to them
- Many feared the impact on relationships, independence, and identity
This hesitation can have real consequences. Nearly a quarter of people waited more than six months before speaking to a healthcare professional.
The Seven Early Warning Signs of Dementia
Experts say these symptoms should not be dismissed, especially if they are new, persistent, or worsening:
- Difficulty following a conversation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory loss that affects daily life
- Hearing loss that disrupts communication
- Frequent forgetfulness
- Mood swings or personality changes
- Difficulty moving or coordinating movements
Seeing one sign does not mean dementia. Seeing several, especially together, is a reason to speak to a GP.
Dementia vs Normal Ageing: The Key Differences
Alzheimer’s Society stresses that not all memory slips are dangerous. Some changes are part of normal ageing.
More concerning dementia-related signs include:
- Poor judgment or decision-making
- Difficulty managing money or bills
- Losing track of dates, seasons, or familiar routines
- Repeatedly misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps
Common age-related changes may include:
- Occasionally forgetting a word
- Missing a payment once in a while
- Forgetting the day but remembering it later
- Misplacing items occasionally
The difference lies in frequency, progression, and impact on daily life.
Why Speaking Up Early Matters
There is no cure for dementia, but early diagnosis makes a real difference. It allows access to treatments that may slow symptoms, planning for the future, and support for both patients and families.
Kate Lee, CEO of Alzheimer’s Society, urges people not to avoid the issue.
“We can’t continue to avoid the ‘d’ word. We need to face dementia head on.”
She advises anyone with concerns to use the charity’s symptoms checklist and speak to their GP as soon as possible.
The Bottom Line
Not every memory slip is dementia. But not every symptom is “just ageing” either.
❤️ If something feels off, trust that instinct. Starting the conversation early could protect independence, dignity, and quality of life for years to come.
Sources
- Time to Diagnosis in Dementia: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/gps.70129
