4. Repetitive Behavior
One of the common signs of a wide range of different brain health issues is repetitive behavior. This can mean that the individual goes round and round in conversation, without realizing that they are repeating what they’ve already said. Likewise, they might brush their teeth regularly, shave too often, or perform routine tasks repeatedly.
This is partly due to the individual forgetting that they have carried out other tasks. Likewise, it may be due to the death of certain neurons which ultimately leave a reduced number of ‘pathways’ in the brain.
Activities that we repeat often lead to strengthened neural networks, via a process of insulation called myelination. These neural pathways will be the hardiest and the last to be damaged by any form of dementia. As such, the most repetitive behaviors will be the last to go.
It’s also common for those with dementia to suffer with anxiety and symptoms similar to those suffering from autism or Asperger’s: specifically an extreme dislike of change. This is common to an extent with normal, healthy aging. But where dementia is involved it can become extreme, with patients showing signs of extreme distress when breaking from their set routine.