It can be hard to tell whether your elderly loved one is showing normal signs of old age or is displaying early symptoms of Alzheimer's. While the signs of the disease can vary, common indicators include significant behavior changes, memory loss, and an increased rate of confusion. Here are 5 signs that your loved one may be progressively developing Alzheimer's disease.
What Is Alzheimer's?
Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia that impairs memory, behavior, and thinking capacity. It causes 60 - 80% of all dementia cases. It is important to understand that Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging, although old age is the highest known risk factor of the disease. The condition mostly affects people aged 65 and older. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease, meaning that it gets worse over time.
Tell-Tale Signs Your Loved One May be Developing Alzheimer's Disease
Here are five signs to watch out for if you think your spouse or loved one may be displaying signs of Alzheimer's disease:
1. Shortness of memory
Memory loss is a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease. That being said, just because your spouse does not recall where they placed their keys or cannot seem to remember the name of their favorite grandson does not mean they have Alzheimer's. The early onset of the disease can make individuals forget conversations that happened moments ago.
Most people with early-stage Alzheimer's often have trouble with their short-term memory, making them constantly rely on post-it notes or reminders on their phones. So, if your significant other keeps asking you the same information repeatedly, it may be a sign they have Alzheimer's.
2. Difficulty Carrying Out Familiar Tasks
One of the common signs that your loved one may develop Alzheimer's is if they all of a sudden cannot figure out how to do tasks they once enjoyed, such as playing a familiar game or preparing their favorite meal. As a result, they may start relying on you to help them with tasks they had no problem doing themselves before.
3. They Often Lose Track of Time and Places
Confusion about places and time is a common symptom of Alzheimer's. Individuals with the early stage of the disease will often forget where they are or how they got there. As a result, they easily get lost trying to get to familiar places. Furthermore, they often lose track of seasons, making them go to appointments at the wrong time or not show up at all.
4. Difficulty with Simple Math
Persons with Alzheimer's often have difficulties with numbers, including simple problems they have handled all their life. For example, they may find it challenging to do simple addition and subtraction. While not everyone finds math simple, the inability to complete routine problems is a sign of Alzheimer's disease.
5. Frequent Mood Swings and Changes in Personality
Individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's often display extreme mood swings and distinct behavioral changes. For example, they may become paranoid, overly suspicious, fearful, and anxious. Someone who used to be very confident can suddenly turn tentative and shy. They are also easily irritable and get very uncomfortable in new places.
If you notice any of these signs and think your spouse or loved one may be developing Alzheimer's, seek medical assistance immediately. The sooner they get treatment, the easier it will be to manage the symptoms and enable them to lead independent lives for longer.
Senior Helpers of Burnsville can offer tailored home care services to help care for your elderly loved one. All residents of Cottage Grove and St. Paul's can benefit from our in-depth specialized care programs for patients with Alzheimer's. Contact us today to learn more about our services.