Neurologist consultant reveals the 'early' warning sign of dementia that may appear while watching TV
Several signs and symptoms appear early as a way to caution the body against changes and illnesses. This is likely the case with more serious or fatal conditions. Dementia, a syndrome or condition connected with the decline of brain activity, also reveals several early signs, per Express. A majority of these can be noticed. However, it can be difficult to diagnose. Neurology Tim Rittman noted, “In its early stages, dementia can be difficult to tell apart from other conditions.” However, he pointed out one sign in particular that could be closely related to dementia.
The doctor explained that signs and symptoms of dementia can be hard to identify and often many might not know “how much to worry.” Nevertheless, it is important to be aware of the indicators and try to visit a doctor in due time. The condition that affects the brain can be delayed and managed if caught early. “It is important to raise awareness of early signs of dementia so people with symptoms can be referred to a memory clinic for a full assessment and an accurate, timely diagnosis. An early diagnosis means that people with dementia and their loved ones can plan for the future, access the right care and support and consider the option of taking part in research,” he noted.
Rittman mentioned that “it’s not easy to spot” the early signs of dementia. This is because they’re likely mild and vague. “Mild forgetfulness, changes to perception or the way we speak can be early indications that something is wrong. It’s really important to know that these kinds of symptoms can have other causes, such as low mood or the side effects of medications. But they could be early signs of dementia,” he explained. The expert mentioned that there is a sign that can be closely associated with dementia. He explained problems related to memory and thinking can be closely linked to the condition and are likely to show up while watching TV.
Those with dementia are likely to be unable to “follow the storyline” of what they’re watching on TV. People may find it hard to follow the plot and are likely to get confused. They may also forget the words they’re seeing on screen and might be unable to connect them to the plot. As storylines become incomprehensible, people are likely to reduce watching TV and find it irrelevant, per the National Institute of Health. The deterioration in cognitive health causes people to lose focus while watching, making the act meaningless altogether.
The study also revealed that as people with dementia began revealing increased signs and symptoms, their interest in watching TV declined due to the aforementioned reasons. Rittman noted that this is an early symptom that shows up with mild forgetfulness and other signs in the initial stage of dementia. “Early on forgetfulness could be mild, affecting memory for places or things that have happened in the past. You may notice someone asking the same question in quick succession or struggling to remember the name of objects around the house,” he pointed out. The doctor recommends visiting a doctor if such indicators are observed.