You may have noticed someone close to you changing – perhaps they are more forgetful, not quite themselves. After a quick search online or a chat with family members or friends, you may be left thinking they’re developing Alzheimer’s. But how do you approach a conversation about dementia when it’s such an emotive topic? “As we get older, we’re all prone to becoming more forgetful, taking longer to remember certain things, getting distracted more easily or struggling to perform several tasks at once,” says head of knowledge at Alzheimer’s Society, Dr Tim Beanland. “These are common signs of getting older, but there is still a very sharp distinction between normal ageing and dementia.” Symptoms that may worry you “Symptoms of dementia gradually get worse over time,” Beanland explains, “and can appear as memory loss, confusion, needing help with everyday tasks, problems with language and understanding, or changes in behaviour. Although symptoms typically occur in people aged 65 and over, they can occasionally appear as early as twenty years sooner.” You may be scared Seeing these types of changes is understandably worrying – it’s a reminder of the age and health of those around us. “Noticing what might be dementia symptoms in a loved one can be distressing and confusing, particularly for people who have never dealt with dementia before,” Beanland says. “Both parties may feel nervous or worried about how to address the topic of potential dementia symptoms, and may not know where to begin.” Be open Beanland suggests asking questions like, ‘How are you feeling lately, physically and emotionally?’ Or ‘Do you have any health worries you’d like to talk about?’ It’s important to remember when approaching someone who may be experiencing dementia symptoms to do so gently, calmly and in a reassuring and supportive manner. “People experiencing dementia symptoms may find it difficult, or take a bit longer, to find the words they wish to say,” notes Beanland. “So, allowing them extra time, or giving them gentle prompts, can help them find the words they’re looking for, without highlighting they’ve forgotten something.” Do your research Dementia or Alzheimer’s may not be the only answer. It’s important to remember there are other conditions which can cause similar symptoms to dementia, such as thyroid problems or urinary tract infections, says Beanland. “Try to focus on helping the person see their GP, to find out what is causing the problems they are having. It’s also important to understand that, whether you are experiencing dementia symptoms personally or you’re a concerned loved one, you do not have to face dementia alone. There is support out there for you. “I’d encourage anyone worried about their own or a loved one’s memory to use Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checklist. It will help to unlock the vital care and support you need, and give you the precious time needed with your family to plan for the future.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live As Simon Cowell shares positive therapy experience, how can it help even if you aren’t in crisis? Project launched to bust myth that cancer is a ‘white person’s disease’ 10 slick ways to kit out your student digs

By Matt Spetalnick and Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee vowed on Saturday

The controversial influencer and internet personality Andrew Tate is livestreaming himself for 24 hours in a fake jail cell, following his release from a real-life cell awaiting trial on charges of human trafficking. The former kickboxer posted a promotional video for the stunt on Twitter, saying: “I’m going back to jail. On August 12, Saturday at 10pm Romanian Time. I will spend 24 hours inside a re-creation of my experience in jail. No phones, No freedom.” Tate and his brother Tristan, both of whom have dual US and British citizenship, were charged in June along with two Romanian female suspects of human trafficking, rape and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women. The suspects have denied the allegations. Sign up to our free Indy100 weekly newsletter Tate started the stream around 8 pm GMT and is mostly just the Tate brothers lounging around in a pretend prison cell with two bunk beds and a toilet in the middle of the room. Highlights of the stream have included Tate wondering around the cell, talking to Tristan, reading, sleeping, smoking, eating and trying to do 1000 pushups. On 4 August a Romanian court placed Tate under judicial control, a less restrictive measure than the house arrest he had previously been subject to. He was held in a cell for 92 days earlier this year. The latest publicity stunt appears to be designed to garner sympathy among his loud, mostly male and often misogynistic fanbase. Tate has repeatedly bemoaned his detention, and the latest video includes stock footage of cockroaches, which he says he shared his cell with. Romania’s anti-organised crime agency alleges the Tate brothers and two other defendants formed a criminal group in 2021 “in order to commit the crime of human trafficking” in Romania as well as the US and Britain. The agency alleges that seven female victims were deceived and transported to Romania, including some who were “misled” by “false claims of marriage and love”. The alleged victims were taken to buildings in Ilfov county where prosecutors said they were sexually exploited and subjected to physical violence by the gang. One defendant is accused of raping a woman twice in March 2022, according to the statement. Tate, who has lived in Romania since 2017, and his brother have denied all of the allegations, with a trial due to take place. Have your say in our news democracy. Click the upvote icon at the top of the page to help raise this article through the indy100 rankings.

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