People with dementia will be affected in different ways. Gradually over time, however, most functions of the brain are likely to be affected.

Symptoms include:

• Poor short term memory – This can include having difficulty paying attention, storing new information and / or recalling recent events.
• Difficulty in reasoning (organising, planning, explaining)
• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Difficulty with abstract thinking
• Loss of initiative
• Impaired judgement
• Disorientation
• Personality changes
• Changes in mood or behaviour
• Difficulties with language
• Coordination problems
• Deterioration in driving skills
• Difficulty with spatial awareness