In this video, Dr James O’Donovan walks you through the 10 early warning signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia — from memory loss and confusion to changes in mood, language, and judgement.
While some memory lapses are a normal part of ageing, others may point to a more serious problem like Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Recognising these early signs can help you or your loved one get the right diagnosis, access support, and plan for the future.
This video is designed to help you spot the first signs of dementia, understand when to seek medical advice, and feel more confident navigating a potential diagnosis. It’s suitable for anyone worried about their own memory, or noticing changes in a family member, partner, friend, or colleague.
Publication Date: 23 November 2025
Next Review Due: 23 November 2028
Conflict of Interest: At the time of publishing this video there are no financial or non-financial conflicts of interest.
Citations
Alzheimer’s Association, 2024. 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s. [online] Available at: [Accessed 26 Jun. 2025].
Alzheimer’s Association, 2024. 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease – Worksheet (PDF). [online] Available at: [Accessed 26 Jun. 2025].
Alzheimer’s Association, 2024. Free course – 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s. [online] Available at:
NHS, 2024. Symptoms of dementia. [online] Available at: [Accessed 26 Jun. 2025].
Useful Resources (UK & USA)
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
• NHS overview of dementia symptoms:
• Alzheimer’s Society (UK) support hub:
🇺🇸 United States
• Alzheimer’s Association – 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s:
• Downloadable Worksheet – 10 Warning Signs (PDF):
• Free Online Course: 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s:
For urgent support:
• UK Dementia Helpline (Alzheimer’s Society): 0333 150 3456
• US 24/7 Helpline (Alzheimer’s Association): 800-272-3900
Accessibility Note
This video has been created using plain English and clear visual communication. Captions are available. We follow AoMRC and NHS/Alzheimer’s Association guidance on digital health literacy and accessibility. For Easy Read materials or other languages, please visit the NHS or Alzheimer’s Association websites linked above.
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