Signs Of Alzheimer – How To Spot Early Symptoms
In this article, we will be discussing the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s so you know how to spot them early.
What are the Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Often, people with Alzheimer’s do not realize they have the condition. As Alzheimer’s progresses, the symptoms become more obvious, but early diagnosis is possible if you know what to look out for. Below are some of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease:
- Difficulty remembering recently learned information.
- Confusion or difficulty with familiar tasks, such as cooking a meal or operating a television.
- Forgetting points or leaving questions unfinished when speaking.
- Misplacing things and forgetting where they are.
- Trouble problem-solving, such as balancing a checkbook.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to see a doctor for a formal evaluation. The earlier Alzheimer’s is diagnosed, the better the prognosis for managing it.
Mood and Behavior Changes
People with Alzheimer’s usually experience personality and behavior changes. They may become resistant to change, agitated, anxious, have difficulty completing familiar tasks, become distrustful, or display inappropriate behaviors. The Alzheimer’s Society lists the following as common behavioral and mood changes caused by Alzheimer’s:
- Anger, confusion, agitation, and aggression.
- Depression, fear, and anxiety.
- Delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations.
- Repetitive behavior and obsessive-compulsive behavior.
These behaviors can be exhausting for families and especially challenging to manage. If loved ones seem to be exhibiting any of these behaviors, it is important to discuss it with the doctor.
Difficulty Communicating
Communication issues often arise in Alzheimer’s patients, as the disease progresses the ability to speak and understand language is affected. In the early stages, this can manifest in difficulty finding the right words or trouble having a conversation.
Later stages may include difficulty completing sentences, difficulty articulating words, confusion over common phrases, and misnaming objects and people. These communication issues can lead to a lot of frustration for the person with Alzheimer’s and those around them. It is important to remain patient and try to listen with empathy. If you are communicating with someone with Alzheimer’s, it is critical to speak in simple terms and avoid talking down to them.
Alzheimer Signs in People With Dementia
Dementia is a term used to describe the decline of certain mental abilities, such as memory. People with dementia often experience difficulty with reasoning, planning, problem-solving, and the ability to remember things. Unfortunately, dementia is often seen as a result of Alzheimer’s with the progression of the disease. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, some common signs of Alzheimer’s include difficulty thinking clearly, confusion regarding time and place, and personality changes. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis helps with treatment and support, so it is best to monitor any changes and seek advice from a medical professional.
Conclusion
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, language, thinking, and behavior. Early diagnosis is important to receive the best possible treatment and care. Signs of Alzheimer’s can include difficulty remembering, difficulty with familiar tasks, mood and behavior changes, difficulty communicating, and dementia. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, it is important to seek medical advice.