Some change in memory is normal as we age, but symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are more than simple memory lapses. People with AD experience difficulties communicating, learning, and reasoning - problems severe enough to have an impact on work, social activities, and family life. The Alzheimer’s Association believes that it is critical to receive treatment, information, and support as early as possible so to recognize warning signs.
Here is a checklist of symptoms.
- Memory loss. One of the most common early signs of dementia is forgetting recently learned information. while it’s normal to forget appointmetns or names, those with dementia will forget such things more often and not remember them later.
- Difficulty performing familiar tasks, such as preparing dinner.
- Problems with language. For example, forgetting simple words or substituting words.
- Poor or decreased judgment. For example, dressing without regard to the weather.
- Problems with abstract thinking. Balancing a checkbook can be tricky, but someone with AD could forget what the numbers are and what needs to be done with them.
- Changes in mood or behavior. Someone with AD may have rapid mood swings for no apparent reason and may become suspicious, fearful or clingy.
- Loss of initiative. May become passive, sleep a lot ot not want to do usual activities.
For further information call the Alzheimer’s Association 24hr. Helpline at 1-800-548-2111
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