Dementia is a group of symptoms related to the ongoing decline of the brain. Most common in people over the age of 65, it can lead to issues with memory, as well as personality and behavioural changes.
It is thought almost one million Britons are currently living with the condition. And this figure is expected to rise due to our ageing population.
Most of us are aware of some of the symptoms, with memory loss and speech decline being among the most common signs. However, what is perhaps less known is the fact the condition can also cause physical changes.
Experts are warning people to be on the lookout for changes in mobility that might otherwise go by unnoticed. These might actually start to affect a person long before you notice a problem with their memory.
According to Dr Tim Rittman, senior clinical research associate at the University of Cambridge, people with dementia might experience changes in the way they walk.
They might also struggle with coordination and become less steady on their feet.
Writing for Alzheimer’s Research UK, he said: “Some types of dementia can cause movement symptoms.
“These might affect someone before memory and thinking problems start.
“Signs to look out for include changes to the way we walk (gait), difficulty with coordination, increased unsteadiness, or limb stiffness.”
People with certain types of dementia are more prone to movement issues than others.
For example, Lewy body dementia is known to cause serious mobility problems.
The NHS explains how it can lead to slow movement, stiff limbs and tremors (uncontrollable shaking).
Frontotemporal dementia also affects mobility, causing slow, stiff movements, “similar to Parkinson’s disease”.
However, it is important to remember that dementia affects everyone differently.
Other symptoms include problems with:
- Memory loss
- Thinking speed
- Mental sharpness and quickness
- Language, such as using words incorrectly, or trouble speaking
- Understanding
- Judgement
- Mood
- Difficulties doing daily activities.
The NHS says: “People with dementia can lose interest in their usual activities, and may have problems managing their behaviour or emotions.
“They may also find social situations difficult and lose interest in relationships and socialising.
“Aspects of their personality may change, and they may lose empathy (understanding and compassion).”
A person with dementia might also “see or hear things that other people do not”.
If someone you know is experiencing signs of dementia you should seek medical help.