Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

Posted On: Nov 11, 2023

Alzheimer's is a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to degenerate and die, resulting in a continuous decline in thinking, behavior, and social skills. It is the most common cause of dementia—a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral, and social skills that disrupts a person's ability to function independently.

Understanding the early warning signs of Alzheimer's can help you detect it in its initial stages, allowing for early intervention and better management of the condition. Here are some of the warning signs of Alzheimer’s.

Memory Loss

Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer's. Memory loss includes forgetting recently learned information, important dates or events, repeatedly asking for the same information, or increasingly needing memory aids (e.g., reminder notes).

Difficulty in Planning or Solving Problems

Some people may experience changes in their ability to follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills.

Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks

People with Alzheimer's often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, they may have trouble driving to a familiar location, organizing a grocery list, or remembering the rules of a favorite game.

Confusion With Time or Place

People with Alzheimer's can lose track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately.

Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships

For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer's. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance, and determining color or contrast, which may cause problems with driving.

New Problems With Words in Speaking or Writing

People with Alzheimer's may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue, or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word, or call things by the wrong name.

If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to seek medical advice. Early detection can lead to better management of the condition and slower progression of symptoms.

Resources for Help

Several resources are available for those who feel they may have Alzheimer's. TheAlzheimer's Association offers a wealth of information about the disease, including support groups and services. TheNational Institute on Aging also provides detailed information on Alzheimer's diagnosis, treatment, and research studies.

At Antelope Valley Medical Center, we have all the care you need for early identification and intervention for you and your loved ones. With the proper support, you can manage the impact of Alzheimer’s on your daily life.