Senior citizens, take note. Being repetitive might be an early sign of dementia

Forgetting what you had for breakfast, or where you left certain objects, are symptoms of neurodegenerative conditions. Depression is also a typical early sign of dementia.

Dementia is a collection of symptoms that can occur due to a variety of possible diseases. The symptoms include impairments in thought, communication, and memory. But, according to a recent research, being repetitive could also be an early sign of dementia. Repeating daily tasks, like shaving or collecting items, may be a sign of a neurodegenerative condition. Asking the same questions in conversation, after they’ve been answered, may also point to dementia.

Almost 47 million people are living with dementia around the world with 4.1 million of them belonging to India.(Shutterstock)

According to the researchers at The Alzheimer’s Association, “The main cause of behavioural symptoms in Alzheimer’s, and other progressive dementias, is the deterioration of brain cells which causes a decline in the individual’s ability to make sense of the world. In the case of repetition, the person may not remember that she or he has just asked a question or completed a task.”

They further said, “Environmental influences also can cause symptoms or make them worse. People with dementia who ask questions repeatedly may be trying to express a specific concern, ask for help, or cope with frustration, anxiety or insecurity.”

Forgetting what they had for breakfast, or where they left certain objects, are symptoms of neurodegenerative conditions. Depression is also a typical early sign of dementia. Mood changes or a shift in personality could point to the condition. Other early signs include apathy, listlessness, confusion, a failing sense of direction, and difficulty following conversations. According to a report, almost 47 million people are living with dementia around the world with 4.1 million of them belonging to India. This is expected to double by 2035.

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