5. Changes in vision
Have you any trouble with judging distance or telling colors apart? In some cases, problems with eyesight may be a sign of Alzheimer’s. Activities like using the stairs, climbing into a bathtub, finding your way home, or reading a book may become more challenging. This sign is also very alarming as it can affect your driving.
Not Alzheimer`s: Gradual eyesight loss or vision changes related to cataracts.
6. Problems with spoken/written words
Following or joining a conversation can become hard with Alzheimer`s. Do you keep repeating yourself during conversations? Are you struggling with finding or remembering the right word? As the symptoms of Alzheimer’s progress, it may become hard to complete a thought that you’ve already started to say out loud. A very common phrase among Alzheimer’s patients is “I know what I want to say, I just can’t find the words.” Vocabulary becomes hard, there may be struggles with naming a familiar object or using the wrong name (e.g., calling a “kettle” a “water-heater”).
Not Alzheimer`s: Sometimes having trouble finding the right word because of nervousness – for example, when speaking publicly – is common for everyone.
7. Misplacing things and not being able to find them
Do you start putting things in unusual places, like your phone in the refrigerator? Everyone misplaces things from time to time, but for a person living with Alzheimer’s, keeping track of things may be incredibly difficult. Patients with this disease are often unable to re-trace their steps to find lost things, and the search can end in frustration and confusion. As the disease progresses, a person may start accusing others of stealing, even if there is no reason for this.
Not Alzheimer`s: Misplacing your phone and later finding it by retracing your steps.
8. Decreased or poor judgment
Have you or your loved one been repeatedly tricked by phone scams and lost money? Experiencing changes in judgment or decision-making may be a sign of Alzheimer’s. For example, a person suffering from this condition may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean or driving in an unsafe way.
Not Alzheimer`s: Everyone can make a questionable decision or mistake once in a while, like neglecting to put a scarf on when it`s obviously freezing outside.
