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You can easily miss the warning signs of any disease, especially when you don’t know what to look for. However, the earlier you notice a decline, the better—medical attention is most effective when you start at the beginning. Here are the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease that you should know about and watch for.
Memory loss is a fact of life. No one has a perfect recollection of every moment in their lives. However, long-term memory loss can disrupt daily life to the point where one becomes incapable of operating at their former strength and awareness. The acuity of mind will fade in surprising ways, so take notice when your loved one or friend begins forgetting recent information or important events. These memory loss issues can present as repetitive questions or as becoming lost during travel. When someone begins relying heavily on the people around them and leaving myriad reminders for themselves, Alzheimer’s may be setting in.
Our higher-order thinking abilities separate us from many species on Earth. However, these faculties can erode over time, and the once-vibrant brain becomes less plastic and loses vigor. If you notice your loved one having trouble with planning, problem-solving, and concentrating, this could be a sign of increasing cognitive challenges. The brains of people with Alzheimer’s are changing at the most foundational level, and these people often lose thinking power quickly and notably as the years pass.
Imagine you have Alzheimer’s and you’re losing the ability to remember new faces you meet and new information you learn. The world suddenly turns into a scary place. Because you cannot remember important information about other people and life around you, everything appears suspicious. This is why older adults with Alzheimer’s often exhibit mood and personality changes. They don’t know how to interact with others in the same way and may become withdrawn. When they do communicate, they act with confusion, agitation, and fearfulness. Though it’s normal to experience these emotions over time, if your loved one increasingly acts in this way, it may be a sign of Alzheimer’s.
If you notice any of these early signs of Alzheimer’s disease in your loved one or friend, it’s time to have a serious conversation with them and to seek help. This help could take the form of independent living or memory facilities. If you’re looking for in-home senior care, Seattle is our area of specialty here at Fedelta Home Care. Contact us today for more information on how to care for the older adults in your life.
We also have additional online resources to help you understand Alzheimer’s Disease and how you can provide care for a loved one that may be afflicted.
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