London, Aug 8 (IANS): The early stages of Alzheimer's and other causes of dementia can be difficult to spot, but there are some signs that be useful in spotting the disease.

Early signs of Alzheimer's include:

Regularly misplacing everyday items, or putting things in odd places, and then forgetting or even denying having done so, reports telegraph.co.uk.

Problems with everyday tasks like preparing a meal, putting it on the table, but forgetting to eat it and then preparing it all over again.

General disorientation, such as failing to recognise familiar streets and frequently becoming confused about the time of the day.

Difficulty finding words or using inappropriate words.

Diminished judgement, like dressing inappropriately for the weather or being unaware of dangerous situations.

Mood or behavioural problems which may resemble depression - usually a mixture of agitation, irritability, apathy and lack of care with personal hygiene.

Early signs of vascular dementia are similar, but the decline can happen in distinct steps rather than gradually.