Why Acting Early Matters: Recognition of cognitive impairment as early as possible.

As we age, occasional cognitive lapses are often considered a normal part of growing older. Misplacing keys, forgetting names, mild behavioural changes, or moments of disorientation can happen from time to time. However, when these begin to interfere with daily functioning, they may indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Consultant in Geriatric Medicine, Dr. Yu Wai Meng, shares his perspective on why early intervention for cognitive impairment is essential and how timely support can make a meaningful difference in quality of life.

Understanding Cognitive impairment and Dementia: Beyond Memory Loss

“It’s just old age” – many a times we hear this and brush it off. If you have been told that you have a mild cognitive impairment, it means your mental ability (cognition) is not as good as they used to be. Cognitive impairment is a medical term referring to problems affecting memory, but could involve a change in the level of problem solving, thinking, attention, focus, language, or visual ability. There are varying degrees of severity, starting from Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). MCI is not the same as Dementia and can be reversible

Dementia is not only about “memory loss,” it can also affect the way you speak, think, feel and behave. Dementia is a syndrome associated with an ongoing decline of brain functions.

There are many causes of dementia, and many different types of Dementia. It is important to understand that dementia is not a natural part of ageing and should never be brushed off due to the age of the person. It is normal for your memory to be temporarily affected by stress, fatigue, some medications and medical conditions. But if the person is becoming increasingly forgetful, especially if over the age of 60, it is a good idea to speak with a doctor about the early signs of dementia.

According to Dr. Yu, cognitive impairment or dementia develops progressively and can affect individuals differently. When left undiagnosed and untreated, even mild cognitive impairment (MCI) could increase the risk of developing dementia. Being forgetful can feel annoying if it happens occasionally, but if it starts to affect daily life or causing safety concerns, please get help from a doctor.

“Many people assume cognitive impairment only means forgetting things, but the condition may also present as confusion, personality changes, difficulty making decisions, or trouble performing familiar tasks” he explained.

Why Early Intervention Matters?

One of the biggest challenges in dementia care is delayed medical attention.

“Early intervention is important because it allows us to identify the cause of cognitive decline at an earlier stage” Dr. Yu said. “Not all memory issues are dementia, and some conditions that affect memory may be reversible or treatable.”

He explained that early assessment also provides an opportunity to slow progression in certain cases, better manage symptoms, and help seniors maintain independence for as long as possible.

“When dementia is recognised early, patients and families have more time to understand the condition, plan ahead, and access support systems that can improve daily living,” he added.

Recognising the Early Signs

Early symptoms of dementia can sometimes be subtle and easily overlooked. Families and caregivers are often the first to notice small but persistent changes that gradually affect daily routine, behaviour, or communication.

Some signs that may warrant closer attention include:

• Frequent forgetfulness that disrupts daily life
• Repeating questions or conversations
• Difficulty managing finances or medications
• Confusion about time, place, or familiar surroundings
• Changes in mood, personality, or behaviour
• Difficulty finding words or following conversations
• Reduced judgement or decision-making ability

“Occasional forgetfulness can happen to anyone,” Dr. Yu noted. “What concerns us is when these changes become persistent, progressive, and begin affecting everyday function.”

New Advances in Alzheimer’s Dementia Care

Recognising the early signs of Alzheimer’s dementia is important because early treatment can make a difference. Dr Yu informs about a group of medication called cholinesterase inhibitors have been used for many years to help brain cells communicate better and to slow the worsening of symptoms”.

“New blood test can now help doctors diagnose Alzheimers disease more easily. One of the causes of Alzheimer’s is the build-up of abnormal proteins in the brain, which can now be detected via blood test. New treatment medicines, such as anti-monoclonal antibody treatment, are designed to remove these proteins and may help slow the progression of the disease.” Dr Yu is very pleased to inform that this treatment is now available to suitably diagnosed dementia patients at Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur. These are exciting news as this treatment had only been recently made available in Malaysia, with Dr Yu being involved in the care of our dementia patients.

These medication treatments work best when started in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Once the condition becomes more advanced, treatment options are fewer and may be less effective.

Building the Right Support Early

Early intervention is not only about diagnosis, but also about building a care plan that supports the senior’s physical, emotional, and cognitive wellbeing.

Assessment for dementia often involves medical history, cognitive screening, physical examinations, and sometimes imaging or blood tests to rule out other causes and comorbidities.

“Management should always be individualised,” Dr. Yu explained. “Some patients may benefit from medications to help manage symptoms, while others may need additional lifestyle adjustments, cognitive stimulation, rehabilitation, or caregiver support.”

He also highlighted the importance of maintaining social engagement, physical activity, healthy nutrition, and regular medical follow-up as part of overall dementia care.

Supporting Families and Caregivers

Dementia affects not only the individual but also the family members caring for them. Early intervention allows caregivers to better understand the condition and prepare for changing needs over time.

“Families often feel overwhelmed when dementia progresses unexpectedly,” Dr. Yu shared. “Seeking help early gives everyone more time to learn, adapt, and create a safer, more supportive environment for the senior.”

He emphasised that caregivers should not hesitate to seek medical advice if they notice unusual behavioural or memory changes in a loved one.

Taking the First Step Towards Better Dementia Care

Dementia may be progressive, but early intervention can make a significant difference in helping seniors maintain dignity, function, and quality of life.

As highlighted by Dr. Yu, recognising symptoms early and seeking timely medical attention allows for more effective management for reversible causes, investigation of early phases of Alzheimer’s dementia and new available treatment options, care planning, symptom management, and family support.

For seniors experiencing persistent memory or behavioural changes, or for families concerned about a loved one’s cognitive health, consulting a Geriatric Medicine Specialist is an important first step towards informed care and early support.

To consult our Geriatricians, please visit:

https://gleneagles.com.my/kuala-lumpur/medical-specialties/geriatric

For individuals looking to better understand their cognitive health and support healthy ageing, learn more about our Healthy Ageing & Memory Screening Package Promotion here:

https://gleneagles.com.my/kuala-lumpur/packages-promotions/healthy-aging-memory-screening-package