Look Out for These Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

According to Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, and indeed it is. Most dementia in the older population is the result at least in part of Alzheimer’s disease. The individual suffers from memory loss, and other cognitive abilities also go for a toss to the extent it interferes with day-to-day activities. As time passes and one’s condition worsens, they may be in need of specialized memory care or Anthem assisted living care and support in the hands of professionals. The key is to take every measure possible to prevent from getting afflicted with it.

This blog aims to discuss one of the most important Alzheimer’s topics, which is some of the most common warning signs of early Alzheimer’s disease. What happens due to a lack of awareness is often older adults don’t realize they are having a problem necessitating medical evaluation or may decide against going to the doctor for their own reasons.

Pay attention to these earliest warning signs in your aging parents:

Poor short-term memory– it is a cause for concern if your parent keeps forgetting what happened recently, or keeps repeating the same question as they are unable to remember what they recently heard or was told.

Repeating the same questions or stories– this is worrisome when your parent keeps repeating the same questions or stories.

Trouble carrying out activities of daily living– early Alzheimer’s gets in an individual’s way of managing finances, maintaining their home, cooking a meal, paying bills, grocery shopping, cleaning the yard, so on and so forth that they once used to do very easily. There is trouble with problem solving and executive function.

Lack of awareness about mistakes/denying them completely– individuals with early Alzheimer’s often deny difficulties or seem to be unaware that they did make a mistake or that there are difficulties. This is a very common early Alzheimer’s sign. This may stem from the fact that they are worried or afraid their freedom will be taken away.

Some other signs:

1. Falsely accusing others of hiding, stealing or misplacing things
2. Developing false beliefs (delusions), for instance, people are out there to harm them, or their partner is having an affair.
3. Developing hallucinations or a false perception, for example, seeing something or hearing something not visible or audible to others.
4. The person is lost while walking or driving.
5. Speech or language difficulty, especially with finding the right word for things or naming things
6. Changes in personality or behavior that is so unlike the person, for example, something amiss with how the person engages socially, etc.

You must bear in mind that these are warning signs. Do not outright assume your loved one definitely has Alzheimer’s. These could arise from other medical conditions as well. A medical assessment by a qualified health care provider is at the center of a correct diagnosis. However, if you’ve been noticing these signs, especially if it happens frequently, there’s a high likelihood of something going on with your parent’s brain function. This makes an evaluation all the more essential for them to receive all the help they need.

Hopefully this information helps you in a way that you are able to support your loved one in receiving adequate care and support they need.

An acclaimed memory care community in Phoenix, Anthem Senior Homes provides the best memory and assisted living care to those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Our programs and activities are designed specifically to support our dementia residents’ needs, and encourage socialization. To book a suite, call Anthem Senior Homes on 623-300-1180.