Bite Sized: First Signs of Dementia – Is it just Normal forgetfulness, or something more serious?

The Next Bit Podcast

• 18 min

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In this bite-sized episode of The Next Bit, Hannah McQueen and Mark Leishman sit down with Dr Cheryl Johnson, Lead Geriatrician at Brightly, to break down the early symptoms of dementia, how it differs from normal ageing, and when memory concerns should prompt an assessment. Dr Johnson explains one of the most important concepts in dementia diagnosis: functional impairment - the difference between occasionally forgetting your keys and memory loss that starts affecting daily life. Some of the topics we cover include: + The difference between normal age-related forgetfulness and dementia + Early warning signs families often miss + Why repetitive stories, post-it notes everywhere, and medication mix-ups matter + Why dementia symptoms can begin years before diagnosis and much more! Importantly, this episode offers hope. If you’re worried about memory loss in yourself or a loved one, this episode will help you understand what to look for and what to do next. For more on this topic, listen to the full-length episode: Can You Actually Slow Ageing? Live well and independent for longer. Get your whole of person assessment at www.agebrightly.co.nz The Next Bit Hosts are: Hannah McQueen - Founder of Brightly Mark Leishman - New Zealand TV and Radio Broadcaster Join our community! We love to hear your feedback and questions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenextbitpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GiGRA8vEx/?mibextid=wwXIfr TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@thenextbitpodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thenextbitpodcast This podcast was written and produced by the amazing team at PodLab www.podlab.nz