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When to Seek Medical Care

A person affected with dementia may not be aware he or she has a problem. Most people with dementia are brought to medical attention by a caring relative or friend. Any of the following warrant a visit to the person's health care provider.

• Marked loss of short-term memory
  
  
• Behavior or personality changes
  
  
• Inappropriate or uncharacteristic behavior
  
  
• Depressed mood
  
  
• Marked mood swings
  
  
• Inability to carry out daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, feeding, using the toilet, or household chores
  
  
• Carelessness in personal hygiene
  
  
• Persistent word-finding difficulties
  
  
• Persistent or frequent poor judgment
  
  
• Persistent or frequent confusion or disorientation, especially in familiar situations
  
  
• Inability to manage personal finances