Checklist of possible behavioral warning signs of dementia

Researchers on Sunday outlined a syndrome called "mild behavioral impairment" that may be a harbinger of Alzheimer's or other dementias, and proposed a checklist of symptoms to help identify who's at risk.

—Has the person become less spontaneous and active — for example, is he/she less likely to initiate or maintain conversation?

—Has the person recently developed trouble regulating smoking, alcohol, drug intake or gambling, or started shoplifting?