As we age, it's natural to occasionally forget someone's name or where we placed our keys. However, when memory loss becomes more frequent or other cognitive functions start to decline, it may be a sign of Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disease that causes a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities. We spoke to our expert Dr Sanjay Pandey, HOD, Neurology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, who listed early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's and dementia.
According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), Alzheimer's disease is a neurological condition that gradually deteriorates memory, cognitive abilities, and eventually, the capacity to perform basic tasks. Typically, symptoms of Alzheimer's manifest in the later stages of life for most individuals affected by the disease.
Alzheimer's disease stands as the primary cause of dementia, a broad term encompassing memory loss and significant cognitive impairments that disrupt daily functioning. Approximately 60-80% of dementia cases are attributed to Alzheimer's disease, as stated by Alzheimer's Association.
Early Signs Of Alzheimer's And Dementia
According to NIA, the initial signs of Alzheimer's disease can differ among individuals. For many, early indications may include a decline in cognitive functions beyond memory, such as difficulty with word retrieval, challenges with spatial awareness or vision, and impaired reasoning or judgement, indicating the early phases of the condition.
Here are 10 early symptoms of Alzheimer’s, as listed by Dr Pandey:
Memory Loss
One of the most common early signs is forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events. You may me unable to answer simple questions like what was the last meal that they had or who visited them recently can be asked to check this.
Difficulty Planning or Problem Solving
Individuals may experience challenges in following a plan or solving familiar problems. This could manifest in tasks, such as managing finances or following a recipe.
Also Read: What Is The Best Treatment for Alzheimer's?
Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks
“People with Alzheimer's or dementia may find it hard to complete routine tasks they have done their entire lives, such as driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules of a favourite game”, said Dr Pandey.
Confusion with Time or Place
People with Alzheimer's lose track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time. Not only this, they may also lose track of where they are or how they got there.
Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships
People with Alzheimer's may have difficulty reading and judging distance, which can affect driving and other visual tasks.
Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing
During a conversation, people with Alzheimer's may struggle to follow or participate. They might pause in the middle of a conversation, not knowing how to proceed or repeat themselves.
Also Read: Glutathione For Alzheimer's: Experts Explain Role Of This Antioxidant In Treating Alzheimer’s
Misplacing Items and Unable to Retrace Steps
Losing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them is common. They may put things in unusual places, such as putting a wallet in the refrigerator.
Decreased or Poor Judgement
There may be changes in judgement or decision-making, such as giving large sums of money to telemarketers or neglecting personal hygiene.
Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities
A person with Alzheimer's or dementia may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects, or sports.
Changes in Mood or Personality
They may become easily upset, anxious, or suspicious. Additionally, their mood and personality can change, often becoming confused, depressed, fearful, or suspicious.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any mental health issues to get the necessary treatment.]