How to Detect Early Signs of Alzheimer’s
As we get older, our brain functioning naturally slows down and we periodically forget things. This is normal part of aging. Dementia, on the other hand, is the gradual loss of brain function that results from certain diseases; the most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike, the occasional memory lapses normally associated with elderly brain function, Alzheimer’s destroys brain cells and affects memory, thought process, and behavior.
People with memory loss and other signs of early Alzheimer’s may find it difficult to recognize their problem. It is more likely that a family member or friend will notice these changes. It is important for family members and caregivers to recognize the early symptoms of dementia so that they can get treatment to slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for their loved one.
The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering recently learned information; Alzheimer’s, typically, starts in the part of the brain that affects learning. Disruptive memory loss is also characteristic of early stages of the disease. Normally, people may experience mild cognitive impairments, such as misplacing the keys or forgetting names, but they may remember them later, and this temporary memory loss does not interfere with their livelihood. Dementia related impairments, on the other hand, will disrupt lifestyles and the impaired person is often unaware of their forgetfulness.
Additionally, people with Alzheimer’s or dementia have trouble planning and problems solving. They may find it difficult to complete familiar tasks. For instance, someone in the early stages of Alzheimer’s may struggle to follow the steps of his or her favorite recipe, even if they have made it hundreds of times before.
People with Alzheimer’s disease may get confused with time or place. They can loose track of seasons and the passage of time. They may also have trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships, making reading difficult. What’s more, people with dementia may have trouble with their vocabulary that affects their speech or writing. For example, you may notice someone repeats him or herself or stops in the middle of conversation at a complete loss as to how to continue. They may struggle with common vocabulary and have trouble finding the right words for familiar items.
Other early signs of Alzheimer’s include decreased or poor judgment. People exhibiting this symptom may pay less attention to their finances or even their personal hygiene. Drastic changes in mood and personality are also associated with dementia. People with early signs of Alzheimer’s may be angry, depressed, suspicious, fearful, and anxious. For these reasons, people with Alzheimer’s often remove themselves from social settings. The withdrawal from social activities and hobbies may be a result of the cognitive and behavioral changes they are experiencing.
Although, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, treatment is available to slow its progression. Early diagnosis of the disease is important for the diagnosed and their family. By detecting the disease early, you can explore treatment options, minimize symptoms, and maintain lifestyle and independence longer. An early diagnosis is beneficial for families, allowing time to plan for the future, cope with changes, and make the most out of life.
Theresa A. Walden, M.D., is a board certified family medical practitioner. Dr. Walden is also a member of Advocate Physician Partners and Advocate Medical Group. She studied medicine at the University of Illinois in Rockford, Illinois and completed her residency at the Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois. Dr. Walden has an office location in Barrington at 6000 Garlands Lane, Barrington, IL 60010. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Walden, call 1.800.3ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622).