10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s
1) Memory loss that disrupts daily life
One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially forgetting
recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events;
asking for the same information over and over; increasingly needing to rely on
memory aids or family members for things they used to handle on their own.
2) Challenges in planning or solving problems
Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or
work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track
of monthly bills. They have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things
than they did before.
3) Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure
People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people
may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work, or
remembering the rules of a favorite game.
4) Confusion with time or place
People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons, and the passage of
time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening
immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.
5) Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have
difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast, which may
cause problems with driving.
6) New problems with words in speaking or writing
People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They
may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they
may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems
finding the right words or call things by the wrong name.
7) Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
A person with Alzheimer’s disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose
things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they
may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time.
8) Decreased or poor judgment
People with Alzheimer’s may experience changes in judgment or decision-making.
For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large
amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping
themselves clean.
9) Withdrawal from work or social activities
A person with Alzheimer’s may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social
activities, work projects, or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a
favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby.
10) Changes in mood and personality
The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer’s can change. They can
become confused, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They may be easily upset
at home, at work, with friends, or in places where they are out of their comfort
zone.
Contact us today for a FREE In-Home Consultation or just to get your questions answered.
*The above information and much more about Alzheimer’s can be found online at www.alz.org.*
