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