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Physical Issues

What physical issues come with dementia?

Memory difficulties are not the only symptom of dementia. Look out for physical problems, too

It’s a common misconception that when people have dementia the main signs and symptoms are linked to memory and confusion. But not everyone experiences dementia like this, especially in the early stages. Much depends on the person and the type of dementia they’re living with. Some people experience physical issues – and loved ones and carers don’t always link them with dementia.

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For some people, these physical changes become evident long before mental symptoms appear. In fact, studies show that some people living with Alzheimer’s disease reported that their walking pace slowed and balance was affected up to six years before their illness was confirmed.

Physical symptoms of dementia

Different types of dementia can cause different physical symptoms. The issues experienced are varied and often linked to co-ordination and balance. They can include serious symptoms, like seizures, or vague problems that can be dismissed as ‘ageing’, like generalised muscle weakness or the need to dash to the loo.

Look out for physical symptoms of dementia, such as:

  • Problems with balance

  • Issues with co-ordination

  • Difficulties with bowels or bladder control

  • Stiffness

  • An inability to ‘pick feet up’ when walking – resulting in a shuffling gait or drag

  • Muscle weakness, twitches and tiredness

  • Problems sleeping i.e. waking up a lot and/or trouble going off to sleep

  • Seizures

  • Difficulty sitting down and standing back up again

  • Temporary paralysis

  • Falling

  • Fainting

  • Slowing up, generally

  • Feeling drowsy

What to do about physical symptoms

It’s important to speak to a GP about any physical symptoms so they can be checked over and all other causes ruled out. Also ask for a medication review.

If the person you’re caring for experiences paralysis or has a seizure don’t wait for a GP appointment, call 999 for an ambulance.

If the problems being experienced are linked with balance, walking and sitting, ask for a referral to a physiotherapist and/or an occupational health specialist who can assess their needs and give advice on how to improve posture and stability.

Falls can be common with physical symptoms of dementia and you can ask for a referral to a falls prevention service so risks can be managed.

Experiencing physical symptoms doesn’t mean that people with dementia can’t stay active. In fact, it’s really important for overall wellbeing that those living with dementia get out and about, keep moving and retain hobbies and interests for as long as they are able to.

What helps with physical issues

Some lifestyle changes can help with some of the physical symptoms linked with dementia, including:

Finally, if the person you’re caring for hasn’t had a care needs assessment it’s a good idea to organise that and you can read more about it here.