Early-Stage Dementia: Impaired Executive Functions
When dementia is in its early stages, individuals not only experience general cognitive decline but also encounter difficulties with their executive functions. These cognitive processes enable us to plan, concentrate, and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. During this phase, people may struggle with planning and organizing their daily activities. Additionally, managing finances can become particularly challenging.
Types of Dementia in the Early Stages
Each type of dementia can display unique symptoms and progress differently in its early stages. One example is Lewy body dementia, which may initially show personality changes and a decline in executive functions before any noticeable cognitive decline. This type of dementia can also be accompanied by atypical sleep behaviors. On the other hand, frontotemporal dementia often leads to early social withdrawal and a lack of insight.