Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases. The early signs of Alzheimer’s can be subtle and often overlooked, but recognizing them is important for seeking diagnosis and treatment as early as possible. Here are some early signs of Alzheimer’s disease to look out for.
Memory Loss
One of the classic early signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information. This may include asking repetitive questions, needing reminders for common tasks like cooking familiar recipes or misplacing frequently used objects like keys or glasses around the house. Memory loss is one of the earliest and most prominent symptoms, as Alzheimer’s typically impacts short-term memory recall first.
Difficulty with Familiar Tasks
People with early stage Alzheimer’s often have increasing difficulty completing routine tasks. This may include activities like driving to a familiar location, remembering rules of a favorite game or keeping track of monthly bills. Even if they have done these tasks many times before, the person may suddenly struggle and need assistance or reminders. Frequent confusion when completing familiar chores is a warning sign.
Problems with Spatial Orientation
Losing track of dates, times, seasons and location is common with Alzheimer’s. A person may have trouble finding their way in familiar places, misremember where objects are kept or forget what day or month it is. Wandering and getting lost in well-known environments can be a sign of early stage Alzheimer’s starting to affect orientation.
Trouble with Words
Alzheimer’s patients progressively struggle to express themselves and communicate. Early on, they may have trouble finding the right words, repeat phrases in conversation or take longer pauses while speaking. Vocabulary becomes more limited or replaced with non-specific words like “stuff” or “things”. The person may withdraw from conversations to hide these difficulties.
Mood and Personality Changes
A person with emerging Alzheimer’s often undergoes mood swings, anxiety, irritability or apathy. They may seem increasingly moody, stressed or withdrawn. Personality changes like lack of interest in usual hobbies, social activities or suspicious behavior can also indicate Alzheimer’s onset. These changes arise as the disease impacts the brain regions that control emotion.
Impaired Judgement
Making questionable or reckless decisions and assessments is an early red flag for Alzheimer’s. A person may experience increasing difficulty with judgements involving money, like overpaying or underpaying bills, or make unsafe choices while driving or performing daily activities. Their ability to apply logic and reason deteriorates.
Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, various care options can improve quality of life and manage symptoms. Drugs like cholinesterase inhibitors may help slow decline in early stages. Cognitive and behavioral therapies can strengthen remaining abilities. Activity planning creates structure and engagement. Safety proofing the home prevents injury from confusion.
A home care company in Burlington, NC, can work out a care plan to ensure there is high-quality care 24/7. As the disease advances, around-the-clock supervised care in a specialized memory care facility will likely become necessary. Palliative care in hospice improves comfort at end stages. Though limited, using a combination of pharmaceutical, psychosocial and daily living supports can optimize function for Alzheimer’s patients.
Being aware of the early warning signs is crucial for anyone concerned about their cognitive health