Because oral bacteria can travel to the brain, maintaining healthy gums and teeth could play a role in lowering the risk of neurodegeneration.

Uncharacteristic behavior

Changes in behavior are common in dementia. A person may begin to ignore social rules they previously respected—a symptom known as disinhibition. This occurs when changes in the brain impact impulse control. As a result, individuals might say things that seem rude, behave inappropriately in public, or act impulsively, such as speaking too loudly or touching strangers.

While unsettling, these actions are not intentional—they reflect how the disease affects brain function.

Difficulties with visual-spatial awareness

Memory loss isn’t the only hallmark of dementia. It can also affect the ability to judge space and depth, recognize familiar people or objects, or navigate surroundings. These visual-spatial challenges raise the risk of getting lost, can make reading hard, and often render driving unsafe.

As these issues increase, the person may feel unsure or confused in everyday environments, worsening their sense of disorientation.

Sleep problems

Many people living with dementia struggle with disrupted sleep. They may have trouble falling asleep, wake often during the night, or feel disoriented after sunset—commonly referred to as sundowning. Even after a night’s rest, daytime fatigue is not unusual. These disturbances in the body’s natural rhythm often lead to mood changes, such as increased irritability or anxiety.