It usually starts small — a misplaced set of keys, a forgotten appointment, or repeating the same story twice in one afternoon. Many Central Florida families chalk it up to “just getting older,” but sometimes these changes signal something more serious: dementia.

Catching dementia warning signs early can make all the difference. The sooner your loved one gets support, the easier it is to manage symptoms, plan for care, and preserve their quality of life. Let’s walk through the 10 early warning signs of dementia every family should know — so you can recognize what’s normal aging and what’s not.

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

We all forget names or grocery items sometimes. But when memory loss begins to affect daily routines — like forgetting familiar routes or important dates — it could be an early Alzheimer’s symptom. Families in Central Florida often notice this first when a loved one forgets how to get to their favorite store or loses track of conversations they just had. These moments, while subtle at first, can grow more frequent over time.

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems

If balancing the checkbook or following a familiar recipe becomes unusually frustrating, it might be more than a “senior moment.” People in the early stages of dementia may struggle with focus, decision‐making, or keeping track of home bills. Encourage your loved one to share when something feels “off”. Early planning helps families secure proper memory care before challenges grow.

3. Confusion With Time or Place

Losing track of what day it is happens to all of us, but with dementia, someone might forget where they are—or how they got there. For example, a person might wake up in their own home but believe they’re still living somewhere else from years ago. This can be alarming, both for them and for their caregivers.

4. Trouble Understanding Visual Images or Spatial Relationships

Did you know dementia can affect more than memory? Visual or spatial issues are common Alzheimer’s symptoms that make it harder to read, judge distances, or recognize familiar faces. This might show up as bumping into furniture, missing steps on a staircase, or confusing reflections in mirrors.

5. Problems With Words in Speaking or Writing

A loved one who once loved telling stories may suddenly pause mid‐sentence, searching for words. They might call objects by the wrong name (“that food thing” instead of “refrigerator”) or repeat themselves often. Communication becomes more difficult, leading to frustration for both the individual and their family. That’s where patient, compassionate dementia care services make a world of difference.

6. Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

Everyone misplaces their phone sometimes. But in dementia, it’s different. People might leave items in odd places—like putting car keys in the refrigerator—and later have no idea how they got there. This confusion can cause fear or frustration, especially if they begin to accuse others of stealing. Gentle reassurance and routine can help reduce these stressful moments.

7. Decreased or Poor Judgment

Maybe Mom starts giving away money to telemarketers, or Dad forgets to dress for the weather. Changes in judgment or decision‐making are another dementia warning sign families should look for. Recognizing these behaviors early allows families to introduce safety measures and personalized care plans that protect dignity and independence.

8. Withdrawal From Work or Social Activities

Someone with early dementia might lose interest in hobbies or isolate themselves from friends. It’s not just forgetfulness — it’s often confusion, embarrassment, or exhaustion from trying to “keep up.” Encouraging familiar routines, social interaction, and compassionate companionship can help maintain emotional well‐being and prevent decline.

9. Changes in Mood or Personality

Has your loved one become unusually anxious, fearful or suspicious? Dementia can cause mood swings and personality changes that seem sudden and out of character. Even calm, easy‐going individuals may become easily upset or depressed, especially when out of their comfort zone. This is often one of the hardest changes for families to witness — and one of the most misunderstood.

10. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks

Tasks once done effortlessly—making coffee, paying the bills, or using a phone—can suddenly feel overwhelming. If this happens regularly, it’s time to seek professional support. At Amen Care, we specialize in supporting Central Florida families facing these changes with compassion, respect, and specialized memory care services that help individuals stay safe and comfortable at home.

What Families Can Do Next

If you’ve noticed one or more of these dementia warning signs, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either. Early detection allows for medical evaluation, support, and care planning that can greatly improve your loved one’s quality of life.

Here’s what you can do right now:

• Schedule a medical check‐up to rule out treatable causes.

• Keep a log of observed behaviors or changes.

• Reach out for professional in‐home care options in your area.

• Explore Alzheimer’s care in Central Florida programs focused on safety and companionship.

When to Consider Professional Support

You don’t have to face dementia alone. When caregiving starts to feel overwhelming or unsafe, it’s time to bring in help. Amen Care provides specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care across Central Florida—designed to bring peace of mind to families and preserve dignity for those they love.

Our caregivers don’t just help with daily routines—they bring comfort, consistency, and compassion into every home. Call Amen Care today to learn more about our memory care programs and how we can help your loved one stay safe, supported, and cared for—right where they belong.