10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s
1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
It`s the most common sign of Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the early stages. Do you forget new information or can`t remember even big events that happened recently? If you or your loved one begin asking the same questions over and over and relying heavily on memory aids (such as notes), this is a major warning sign.
Not Alzheimer`s: Occasionally forgetting common things is normal, like where you placed your phone. Also, forgetting something like names or dates, but remembering them later is a typical age-related change.
2. Troubles with planning or solving problems
Have you noticed any have trouble making plans and sticking to them? Or it suddenly became very tricky to follow an old trusty cake recipe? Another important sign of Alzheimer’s disease is having trouble planning and sticking to a certain action pattern, or working with numbers and keeping up on monthly bills. You or your close one may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do familiar everyday things than before.
Not Alzheimer`s: A few occasional mistakes when managing finances or household bills are nothing to worry about.
3. Daily tasks are a challenge
Do you or your loved one have trouble driving to a familiar location or organizing a grocery list? It`s very common for people with Alzheimer`s to have difficulties with familiar things. People with this condition often find it hard to complete even the simplest daily tasks. If you find yourself getting lost on your way home or it becomes difficult to do the job you’ve had for 20 years, it’s definitely worth seeing a doctor.
Not Alzheimer`s: Having trouble learning something new is not a sign of Alzheimer’s.
4. Confusion with time or place
Do you get lost or disoriented easily? Patients with Alzheimer’s can become increasingly confused about where they are located, and determining how they got there. They can easily forget dates, seasons and the passing of time. As the disease progresses, a person with Alzheimer`s may believe they are younger than they actually are.
Not Alzheimer`s: Occasionally forgetting and wondering what the date is today and then figuring it out later is absolutely okay.
