NHS warns against dismissing symptoms as ‘natural part of ageing’

The NHS has warned people not to ignore four key dementia symptoms, stressing they are not just a natural part of getting older.

In guidance shared on social media platform X, the health service said that memory loss, difficulty concentrating, struggling with familiar tasks and mood changes could indicate cognitive decline rather than normal ageing.

More than 944,000 people in the UK currently have dementia, including one in every 11 people over 65.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, accounting for around 60 to 70 per cent of cases, according to the World Health Organization.

The NHS said: “Different types of dementia can affect people differently, and everyone will experience symptoms in their own way.

“However, there are some common early symptoms that may appear some time before a diagnosis of dementia.”

The four main signs include memory loss or difficulty concentrating; finding it hard to carry out everyday tasks, such as handling money or getting confused when shopping; struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word; and confusion about time, place or mood.

“Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. It’s important to talk to a GP if you’re worried about memory problems or other symptoms,” the NHS alert continued.

Alzheimer’s disease is believed to result from an abnormal build-up of two proteins – amyloid and tau – which form deposits around brain cells.

These create tangles that block communication between neurons and cause decline. While the exact cause is not fully understood, several factors are linked to increased risk.

These include lifestyle factors and cardiovascular conditions, increasing age (though dementia is not a normal part of ageing), family history and untreated depression.

Alzheimer’s is progressive, with symptoms developing gradually over many years.

Early signs often include minor memory issues, such as forgetting names or misrecalling conversations.

As the condition advances, symptoms can include problems moving around without help, hallucinations, difficulties with speech or language, poor decision-making, confusion or disorientation, low mood, anxiety and behavioural changes such as aggression or suspicion.

“There’s currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but medicines are available that can help relieve some of the symptoms,” the NHS said.

“Various other types of support are also available to help people with Alzheimer’s live as independently as possible, such as making changes to your home environment so it’s easier to move around and remember daily tasks.

“Psychological treatments such as cognitive stimulation therapy may also be offered to help support memory, problem-solving skills and language ability.”