Ten Warning Signs
Alzheimer’s (AHLZ-high-merz) disease is the most common form of dementia, which is a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. It is a fatal disorder that results in the loss of brain cells and function and which currently affects 5.4 million Americans. Most people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are 65 years of age or older, but undetectable changes in the brain may begin five to ten years earlier. Some people can have milder memory problems, known as mild cognitive impairment, years before manifesting full blown Alzheimer’s disease.
Many older individuals wonder if they might be experiencing some of the signs of Alzheimer’s disease, but since our memories change as we grow older, how do we know if these changes may just be a part of normal aging? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, ‘memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a typical part of aging’ and they have prepared a list of ten warning signs that can help you recognize when you might be experiencing signs that warrant a visit to the doctor.
1) Memory changes that disrupt daily life
2) Challenges in planning or solving problems
3) Difficulty completing familiar tasks
4) Confusion with time or place
5) Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
6) New problems with words in speaking or writing
7) Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
8) Decreased or poor judgment
9) Withdrawal from work or social activities
10) Changes in mood and personality
Even when armed with information such as this it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and the normal changes associated with aging. The important thing to consider is whether the problem you are concerned about is something new. If you have always had difficulty balancing a checkbook, then struggling with this task is probably not a warning sign. One of the most common early signs is forgetting recently learned information. Whether an individual recognizes the warning signs in themselves or others are the first to notice changes in memory, behavior or abilities, it is important to see a doctor to find out the cause. The sooner the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is made, the better chance one has to receive treatment and plan for the future.
For additional information visit the Alzheimer’s Association website at:
www.alz.org