9. Social withdrawal
Do you feel like you don`t want to see anyone? Have you given up a favorite hobby recently? Lack of interest and withdrawal from people and activities can be signs of early-onset Alzheimer`s. People with this disease usually have no desire to follow a once-favorite sports team, spend time with good friends and join get-togethers with family.
Not Alzheimer`s: If you need longer breaks between activities or sometimes feel like skipping, going out with friends, you may be just tired or overwhelmed.
10. Changes in mood and personality
Do you lack motivation? Do you get irritated very easily and find it impossible to hold your anger? If you are usually an easy-going person and suddenly find yourself being suspicious, anxious and overreacting when something minor changes, it may be a sign of Alzheimer`s. A person living with this condition may experience mood and personality changes. Mood swings, typically in situations where they are outside of their comfort zone, are also a common warning sign.
Not Alzheimer`s: Some of us are not so flexible when it comes to changes. Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming a little upset when the routine is disrupted is totally fine.
Early detection matters. See a doctor.
If you notice any of the 10 signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s listed above in yourself or a close one, don’t ignore them. Do not hesitate to make an appointment with your doctor. You might feel quite anxious about discovering these changes. However, it’s important to take action to figure out what’s going on. Being diagnosed with Alzheimer`s at an early stage gives you an opportunity to explore effective treatments which will help maintain a comfortable level of independence for longer.
How is Alzheimer`s diagnosed?
The doctor is going to evaluate your physical and mental health. They will do a mental status test, which checks memory, ability to solve easy tasks and thinking skills. Then you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in Alzheimer`s, like a neurologist. They might do some blood or imaging tests to make an exact diagnosis.
