How to Identify Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's is a disease of the brain which causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and skills of reasoning. Every individual may experience differing symptoms in varying degrees, but there are 10 warning signs that should be noted in any case. If you notice any of the following warning signs or symptoms, it may be Alzheimer's and you should seek a medical professional.

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life

Not to be confused with: Occasionally forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems

Not to be confused with: Making occasional errors in daily activities

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, work or leisure

Not to be confused with: Needing some help with using electronics such as a microwave or recording a TV show.

4. Confusion with time and/or place

Not to be confused with: Forgetting the day of the week but remembering later.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

Not to be confused with: Vision decline due to age-related changes.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing

Not to be confused with: Occasionally having trouble finding the right word to describe something.

7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps or back-track

Not to be confused with: Misplacing items from time to time with the ability to retrace steps to find them.

8. Decreased or poor judgement

Not to be confused with: Making bad decisions here and there.

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities

Not to be confused with: Feeling weary about social obligations.

10. Changes in mood and/or personality

Not to be confused with: Developing specific ways of doing things and irritability from disruption of that routine.

If you would like to learn more about the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease listed above, as well as the differences compared to typical age-related changes, please Click Here.