Alzheimer’s Disease is a condition that affects the brain and can lead to memory problems. As we age, it’s normal to forget things occasionally, like someone’s name, but if memory issues start to impact your daily life, it could be a sign of Alzheimer’s. Unfortunately, many people mistakenly believe that Alzheimer’s is just a normal part of getting older, so they ignore the warning signs their brains may be giving them. Here are seven early signs that someone might have Alzheimer’s that you should be aware of:
1. Trouble Remembering Daily Tasks
Forgetting about a planned Zoom meeting or struggling to remember the name of someone you recently met can happen to anyone. But if someone with Alzheimer’s forgets entire conversations or events and can’t recall them later, it’s a concerning sign.
2. Difficulty Solving Problems
Making a mistake in a math calculation is normal, but individuals with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following instructions or doing tasks they once mastered. They might lose interest in activities they used to enjoy or become confused by complex directions.
3. Confusion with Time and Place
People with Alzheimer’s might get lost in familiar places, like not knowing how to get home. They can become unsure of the time of day or dress inappropriately for the weather.
4. Language Problems
Alzheimer’s patients may struggle to find the right words during conversations, forget words, or have trouble putting sentences together. Reading might also become challenging.
5. Misplacing Things
Misplacing things occasionally is normal, but if someone with Alzheimer’s consistently misplaces items and can’t retrace their steps, it’s a red flag. They might even accuse others of stealing their things.
6. Poor Judgment Skills
People with Alzheimer’s might have difficulty managing their money, stop taking care of their personal hygiene, or take risks, like leaving the stove on or acting inappropriately in social situations.
7. Personality Changes
Some Alzheimer’s patients experience changes in their personality, like becoming less social, acting irrationally, or becoming impatient. Others may become hostile or wander aimlessly.
If you or someone you love shows these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor for a thorough physical and mental health examination. The doctor will review medical history and conduct tests to assess memory, problem-solving abilities, and basic logic. Blood or brain imaging tests might also be done. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you notice these changes. Have an open conversation about visiting the doctor together. You can talk to your primary care physician or internal medicine specialist about Alzheimer’s and dementia concerns.
(With inputs from Dr. Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist, and Stroke Specialist, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road)
