The commonest symptom reported by people with early dementia is 'short term' memory problems. However as the presenting symptoms vary depending on areas of the brain affected and the individual's ability to compensate, there could be an unlimited combination of symptoms that emerge. A specialist will establish relevant symptoms and evaluate its progress and severity over preceding months or years taking into account the individual's previous intellectual functioning and personality. Treatable mental health conditions like depression, which also affects attention and memory, will be identified and treated appropriately. Information provided by someone who knows the individual well will help us verify and elaborate on symptoms as the person may not remember the quality of their symptoms due to their memory impairment.

Some of the common reported symptoms are listed below. These symptoms become relevant if they occur more frequently, appear in specific clusters or become more prominent over time.