I'm concerned my dad may have early dementia what are the symptoms !! ?

Memory loss: There are multiple illnesses that cause dementia. The hallmark symptom is memory loss. Some other symptoms are changes in language, gait, orientation. I suggest evaluation by physician.

Short term memory: Mostly short term memory is affected first, sometimes planning impaired. Take your dad to see his Primary care doc for a mini mental exam.

Varied: General confusion about time, place and person. He should have an assessment by a neuro psychiatrist or a gerontologist. There are objective changes proven by tests that help with the diagnosis. Physical reasons such as urinary tract infections should be part of his exam.

Memory: Dementia usually begins as a slow steady decline in short term memory and then long term memory follows. In the beginning many people dismiss these lapses in memory. If you feel your father is suffering from dementia then have his health care provider discuss his symptoms and discuss evaluation.