What are the symptoms of Alzheimer?
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease can vary from person to person and worsen over time. Early detection and diagnosis can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are the key symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease:
Memory Loss
Memory loss that disrupts daily life is often one of the first noticeable symptoms of Alzheimer's. This includes forgetting recently learned information, important dates or events, asking for the same information repeatedly, and increasingly needing to rely on memory aids (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own.
Challenges in Planning or Solving Problems
Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. This might include trouble following a familiar recipe, keeping track of monthly bills, or difficulty concentrating on complex tasks.
Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks
People with Alzheimer's often find it hard to complete daily tasks. They may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work, or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
Confusion with Time or Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time is common. People with Alzheimer's can become confused about where they are or how they got there.
Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships
Vision problems can be a symptom of Alzheimer's. This may lead to 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 struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word, or call things by the wrong name.
Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
A person with Alzheimer's disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing, especially as the disease progresses.
Decreased or Poor Judgment
Alzheimer's can lead to changes in judgment or decision-making. This might manifest as poor understanding of safety risks, or uncharacteristic overspending.
Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities
A person with Alzheimer's may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects, or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby.
Changes in Mood and Personality
The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer's can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends, or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.
It's important to note that experiencing one or more of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean a person has Alzheimer's disease. Cognitive changes can be caused by a variety of factors, including other types of dementia, acute illnesses, and medication side effects. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and accurate diagnosis. Early medical intervention can offer the best chance to treat symptoms and plan for the future.