Dementia series: What are the signs you have dementia?

RAISING AWARENESS: An image from the Dementia Understand Together TV campaign
Memory loss, particularly of recent events or people’s names
Problems with language, or difficulty finding the right word
Changes in mood and behaviour
Becoming confused in familiar surroundings or situations
Finding it hard to start or follow conversations or TV programmes
Problems managing money and keeping track of bills
Difficulty solving problems or doing puzzles
Loss of interest in hobbies
Repeating a question or story several times without realising
Get physically active – every adult should aim to include 150 minutes of physical activity in their week
Keep your brain active – stay mentally stimulated by getting involved in a community group or engaging in everyday activities such as going to work, playing cards or playing a musical instrument
Quit smoking – double your chances of quitting by calling the HSE QUIT team on Freephone 1800 201 203 or text QUIT to 50100 for free and receive a call back
Know your blood pressure – have your blood pressure checked at least once every six months
Healthy eating – a balanced diet that is rich in vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, and fish is a good starting point
Alcohol in moderation – heavy drinking can cause, or worsen, dementia. Visit askaboutalcohol.ie, or call HSE Alcohol Helpline
This article series has been developed by Dementia: Understand Together, a public support, awareness and information campaign led by the HSE in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland and Genio. For more information, including details of dementia supports and services in Cork, visit understandtogether.ie or Freephone 1800 341 341