Alzheimer's disease is a devastating and progressive neurological disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive impairments that gradually get worse over time. There are many early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Keep reading to learn more about these warning signs and what you can do to identify them.
Changes in Personality
Changes in personality can be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. For example, a person with the disease may become more withdrawn and less interested in activities they used to enjoy. They may also have trouble remembering things and making decisions. These changes in personality may be caused by the buildup of proteins in the brain that are associated with the disease. These proteins can damage the nerve cells in the brain, which can lead to changes in a person’s personality. If you notice changes in a loved one’s personality, it is important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can help ensure that a person receives the best possible care.
Misplacing Things
Misplacing things is often one of the earliest warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease. This means that a person with Alzheimer’s may put things in odd places, forget where they put things, or lose the ability to retrace steps to find something they misplaced. This can be very frustrating for both individuals with the disease and their loved ones.
Alzheimer’s disease affects the part of the brain that controls memory, so it’s not unusual for someone with the disease to have trouble remembering where they put something or even what they were just doing. They may also have difficulty following directions or completing tasks. All of these changes can make it difficult for people with the disease to live independently. If you notice that a loved one is having trouble keeping track of things, it’s important to talk to their doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for helping people with Alzheimer’s maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.
Problems with Language
Problems with language are an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. People with the disease often have difficulty finding the right word or remembering common words. They may also have trouble following a conversation or keeping up with a conversation. Problems with language can also be an early sign of dementia. Dementia is a group of diseases that cause a decline in mental abilities, including memory, thinking, and judgment. Dementia can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. People with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia may have difficulty with:
- Remembering words
- Following a conversation
- Keeping up with a conversation
- Understanding what is said to them
- Speaking clearly
Reduced Judgment or Decision-Making Ability
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, judgment may be reduced as the disease begins to take its toll on the brain. Reduced judgment can manifest in a number of ways, including making poor decisions, engaging in risky behaviors, and becoming easily confused. For example, someone with reduced judgment may forget to take their medications, leave the stove on, or wander away from home. Reduced judgment is often one of the first signs of the disease and can be an important early warning sign to look out for. If you are concerned that someone you know may be experiencing reduced judgment, it is important to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment of the disease are critical for preserving the quality of life and independence.
Overall, it is important to be aware of the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease in order to get treatment as soon as possible. The earlier the diagnosis, the more treatment options are available to slow the progression of the disease.
