People often overlook the first signs of dementia, but one doctor says they might appear in everyday places—like the grocery store.
Dr. John Abroon, a board-certified primary care physician, is urging the public to pay attention to small signs that could point to early-stage dementia. According to Dr. Abroon, one red flag is having difficulty with simple tasks while shopping. This includes using the wrong credit card or becoming confused when trying to make change.
“These are signs that something could be wrong with the brain’s ability to plan and carry out basic actions,” Dr. Abroon said. “If someone struggles with shopping independently, it might be an early indicator of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.”
Why Early Signs Matter
Dr. Abroon stressed the importance of paying attention to changes in day-to-day functioning. “These signs often come on slowly and can be subtle at first,” he said. “People might brush them off as nothing. But missing them can delay a diagnosis.”
For example, someone may begin forgetting how to organize a shopping list or may repeatedly make small mistakes at checkout. These changes are sometimes dismissed as normal aging. However, when combined with other symptoms—such as memory lapses or trouble judging space—they may signal something more serious.
“The more symptoms we notice, the more likely it is we’re dealing with dementia,” Dr. Abroon explained. “It’s important to look at the bigger picture.”
Why Early Diagnosis Makes a Difference
Dr. Abroon noted that early medical attention can make a real difference. “When we catch dementia early, we can act,” he said. “This could mean lifestyle changes, support services, or starting medications that help slow down symptoms.”
He added that dementia does not follow the same timeline for everyone. “For many people, it can take years for symptoms to become severe. But acting early can give patients and families more time to adjust and plan.”
While no cure exists, current treatments can help manage the condition. “Modern medications may delay the worsening of symptoms,” Dr. Abroon said. “Sometimes, this can mean several more months—or even years—of better quality of life.”
What to Watch For
The NHS outlines the following early symptoms of dementia:
- Memory problems
- Trouble focusing
- Difficulty doing familiar tasks, like managing money
- Getting lost in time or place
- Changes in mood or personality
- Difficulty following conversations or finding words
In Alzheimer’s disease, these signs may also include:
- Forgetting recent events or names
- Repeating questions often
- Trouble planning and organizing
- Confusion in unfamiliar places
- Problems with numbers and shopping
- Becoming more withdrawn or anxious
Conclusion
Dr. Abroon urges families not to ignore these early signals. “It’s better to ask questions early than to wait too long,” he said. “With the right care, we can support people in living fuller, longer lives even with a dementia diagnosis.”
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