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Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease affecting 55 million people worldwide, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. It causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and reasoning.
Recognizing the signs of Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult for families because they are often thought of as typical signs of aging. However, there are specific symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease that are not a normal part of aging.
Early detection is crucial for the symptoms to be managed, care to be provided, and even to participate in clinical trials. The best way to catch Alzheimer’s disease early is to know the symptoms. Here are the most important ones to look for.
8 signs to look for to spot Alzheimer’s disease
1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Memory loss is one of the earliest and most common signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Although forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, people with Alzheimer’s disease frequently forget recently learned information, important dates, and may repeatedly ask the same questions over and over. You may notice that people with Alzheimer’s disease rely heavily on memory aids, such as notes or electronic devices, to remember important information.
2. Challenges completing familiar tasks
It’s not uncommon for people with Alzheimer’s disease to have challenges completing familiar or routine tasks, such as driving to a familiar location, bathing, getting dressed, or writing a grocery list. Simple tasks can also become more challenging, taking much longer to complete.
3. Losing track of time or place
Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time can also indicate Alzheimer’s disease. People with Alzheimer’s disease may forget where or how they got here, which can cause them to wander and frequently get lost.
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4. Mood and personality changes
Extreme mood and personality changes can also be signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals may quickly get upset, angry, or depressed. They may imagine things, people, or situations that aren’t real. They may become confused, sad, afraid, or aggressive.
5. Poor judgement
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may struggle with judgment or decision-making. They may make poor judgment when dealing with money, personal hygiene or grooming.
6. Difficulty planning or solving problems
People with memory challenges due to Alzheimer’s disease can have difficulty concentrating or experience changes in their ability to work with numbers. For example, they may find it difficult to follow steps in a recipe or to keep track of a checkbook balance or their monthly bills.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
Frequently misplacing items and being unable to find them by retracing your steps can indicate Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, people with Alzheimer's disease may put items in unusual places, accuse others of stealing, start rummaging, or search various areas to find lost items.
8. Problems with words in speaking or writing
Finding the right words to express thoughts can become challenging for people with Alzheimer's disease. They may pause during a conversation, lose their thought, or repeat themselves. They might have trouble naming objects, using the wrong words, or often calling things by the wrong name.
Wrap up
Spotting the early signs of Alzheimer's disease is important because it can lead to early diagnosis, treatment, and care. If your loved one is experiencing several of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to discuss them with your loved one’s physician. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms more effectively and provide a better quality of life for people with Alzheimer's disease. Knowing the signs to look for to spot Alzheimer’s disease can empower individuals to seek the necessary support and resources to help their loved ones.
Contact a helpful advisor for more information on Allegro’s Ensemble memory care communities. Download our free “Choosing the Right Community” guide for helpful guidance on picking the right senior living community for your loved one.
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