As people live longer, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia continues to rise, making it more important than ever to recognize the early signs. Early detection can help individuals access treatments and support services sooner, which can improve quality of life and potentially slow the progression of these conditions.
Some of the key early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia that you should look for in your loved ones are:
While noticing one or two of these signs isn’t a direct indication someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s still a good idea to take note of the changes in your loved one’s behaviors and habits to help them get medical intervetion when needed. Keep reading to learn more about these signs and what you can do to help.
Memory loss is one of the most common early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia. While everyone forgets things from time to time, the memory loss associated with these conditions is more severe and persistent. Individuals may forget recently learned information, important dates, or events and may repeatedly ask for the same information.
People with early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia may find it challenging to follow a plan or work with numbers. They might have trouble following a familiar recipe, keeping track of monthly bills, or concentrating. Tasks that were once simple may become overwhelming.
Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time is another early sign to watch for. Individuals may forget where they are or how they got there. This confusion can extend to understanding something if it is not happening immediately.
For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s or dementia. They might have difficulty reading, judging distance, and determining color or contrast, which may cause problems with driving.
People experiencing early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia may struggle to join or follow a conversation. They might stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or may repeat themselves. Finding the right word or calling things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a watch a “hand clock”) are also common issues.
A person with Alzheimer’s or dementia may put things in unusual places. They might lose items and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing, especially as the condition progresses.
Changes in decision-making and judgment, particularly in dealing with money, are often early signs of cognitive impairments. They may make poor judgment calls or pay less attention to grooming and cleanliness.
Individuals may start to withdraw from hobbies, social activities, or work projects. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite hobby or avoiding being social because of the changes they are experiencing.
Mood and personality changes are common in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Individuals may become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They might be easily upset at home, at work, with friends, or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly impact the management of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Doctors can perform tests to evaluate cognitive function and rule out other conditions that might be causing symptoms.
Recognizing the early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia can lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of the conditions.
While noticing one or two symptoms does not necessarily mean someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia, consulting a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation is crucial when multiple signs are present. Early intervention can offer a range of benefits, including better planning, access to treatment options, and improved quality of life.Take the next step in making sure of the well-being of your loved ones. Contact Juniper Village at Aurora today to learn more about our specialized memory care programs and how we can support you and your family. Schedule your tour and consultation today.
Recognizing what not to say is just as important as knowing what to say. Using… Read More
When the stress of caregiving becomes overwhelming, respite care can allow you to take a… Read More
Older adults can benefit greatly from adding balancing exercises to their fitness regimen. These benefits… Read More
The best pet is a practical pet. When choosing a pet companion to join your… Read More
Elder law is a specialized practice focused on helping older adults with various legal issues,… Read More
You can help your older adult parents downsize by helping them sort and declutter while… Read More