Early Signs of Alzheimer’s
While changes in memory grow more frequent as one gets older, those suffering from Alzheimer’s disorder have difficulty learning, reasoning, and communicating. These problems become so severe as to have an impact on their daily life and the lives of those around them. Unfortunately, there is no easy line between normal changes as one grows older and the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, with the distinction being mostly subjective. It is always a good idea to have medical professional testing persons suspected of having Alzheimer’s disease, as the signs of the disorder can be difficult to distinguish. Early treatment is important in order to have the most time to treat and learn about this illness. The following are some simple warning signs of Alzheimer’s.
Those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease can have a hard time performing tasks which were once quite simple. An individual may forget a recipe when preparing a meal, forget to make an important phone call, or forget to pick someone up from an appointment. This behavior varies from normal conditions, where forgetfulness only happens occasionally.
Forgetting simple words can also be a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease, which can make speech very slow or difficult to understand. For example, if someone suffering from Alzheimer’s is unable to find a hair dryer they may ask instead for “that thing that blows my hair.”
Memory loss is the most common sign of Alzheimer’s disease. One forgets what they were supposed to do more and more frequently and is unable to remember the information later if they have the disorder. Normal behavior can include forgetting names and appointments on an occasional basis. Persons with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease can become very disoriented and not remember how they got to a specific place. They can even become lost in their own neighborhood, forgetting where they are and not knowing how to reach their home. Misplacing things is another common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease and one may put things in unusual places, such as placing their watch in a freezer or leaving perishable foods in a cupboard.
Individuals showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease may also dress inappropriately for their current circumstances, such as wearing too much clothing in the summer and too little clothing in the winter. They may also show poor judgment in dealing with finances, spending large amounts of money on frivolous purchases.
Changes in personality are also a common occurrence in those with Alzheimer’s, and they may become confused, suspicious, fearful, or dependent on a family member. Their mood and behavior can also change; showing rapid mood swings such as those a teenager might show for no obvious reason.
Listlessness is also a common side effect of Alzheimer’s, and a sufferer may sit in front of a TV for hours on end. They may also spend their time in such activities as gazing out of a window for extended periods of time or taking more sleep than should be needed.
With all of the following indicators of Alzheimer’s disease, one should be able to recognize the symptoms in themselves or a family member that they love. Remember that normal activity usually deteriorates as one ages; however, this deterioration is much worse in those suffering from the disorder. Getting help from a doctor is essential if you believe you spot the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s, as early management of the disease is essential.