SPIN-D Co-lead, Professor Chris Fox (University of Exeter), recently spoke to Saga Magazine, the UK’s best-selling monthly subscription magazine aimed at readers over 50.

Progression
Dementia symptoms are continuous and worsening, without “days off.” This is a key clinical indicator that separates dementia from normal ageing or temporary cognitive changes.

Importance of early clinical assessment
GPs typically begin with a cognitive history and structured screening. If concerns remain, the person is referred to a memory service or neurology clinic for further assessment.

Differentiation from depression
While dementia can sometimes be mistaken for depression, a clinician will look for progressive cognitive decline rather than mood-only symptoms. The trajectory over time is the critical diagnostic clue.

“Apathy and this type of depression are a potential warning sign in middle age and beyond of dementia coming down the line, which is well recognised.  It could be due to vascular dementia, which is caused by damage to blood vessels supplying the brain with oxygen, or it could be Alzheimer’s.” 

Prof Chris Fox

Read the full article published on 3 November 2025 on Saga Magazine: 7 early signs of dementia you might miss.