Symptom in front of the TV you ‘shouldn’t ignore’ that could indicate dementia

A symptom that appears while watching TV could be a warning sign of dementia. Experts have explained that this is one of many potential indicators of cognitive decline.

Dementia is a syndrome, or a group of symptoms, related to the ongoing deterioration of the brain. Therefore, it can result in memory loss, behavioural changes, and even issues with mobility.

Most common in people over the age of 65, its symptoms can be easily confused with some of the typical signs of ageing. However, there are ways to distinguish between what is considered normal and what is concerning.

In an update, Alzheimer’s Research UK explained: “It’s normal for our memory and thinking to slow down as we get older. But for some people, these changes can start to get in the way of day-to-day life.

“This can be a sign that something else is going on, rather than just ageing.” However, it stressed that there are various issues that can also result in memory and thinking difficulties such as menopause, vitamin deficiencies and thyroid problems.

With this in mind, the charity listed some of the key potential signs of dementia to spot. Experiencing one or two “every now and then” isn’t unusual, it said. “But if you or someone close to you is noticing these changes more often, it may be worth keeping a note in a simple symptom diary,” it continued.

“If you’re worried about any of the symptoms listed below, speak to your GP. They can run some tests to find out what’s causing your symptoms.”

Among the symptoms listed was one that could become noticeable when watching TV. Alzheimer’s Research UK said that everyday tasks might become “harder than usual”.

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This includes finding the use of a TV remote “confusing”. It said: “Things you normally do without thinking, like using a remote or appliance, start to feel confusing.

“What research shows: Diseases like Alzheimer’s can slow how the brain processes information and sequences steps, so routine tasks take longer and feel less automatic.” As an example, it added: “You struggle to use the TV remote you’ve used for years.”

This is supported by the NHS, which says that “difficulties doing daily activities” could be a sign of dementia. The health body warns that this may start mild and get worse “very gradually”.

The NHS says: “Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. This is why it’s important to talk to a GP sooner rather than later if you’re worried about memory problems or other symptoms.”

The other warning signs listed by Alzheimer’s Research UK were:

• Memory problems or forgetting recent events – for example, you arrange to meet a friend, and then forget about this arrangement a couple of hours later
• Struggling to plan or solve everyday problems – for example, you’ve paid the same bill online for years, but suddenly can’t work out what to do next
• Trouble finding the right words – for example, you point at the kettle and say “the hot thing” instead of the word you want
• Feeling confused about time or place – for example, you go to the shop you always use and feel unsure which direction home is
• Changes in how you see or interpret things – for example, you misjudge a step or kerb you’d normally manage without thinking
• Putting things in the wrong place more often – for example, you find your keys in the bathroom cupboard and have no memory of leaving them there
• Poor judgment or risky decision‑making – for example, you give money to a caller on the phone without checking who they are
• Withdrawing from social activities – for example, you stop going to your weekly group because following the chat feels too hard
• Changes in mood, confidence or personality – for example, you feel unusually suspicious of people you trust, even when nothing has changed

If you or someone you know displays signs of dementia, you should speak to a GP.