How To Detect Signs Of Alzheimer’s

Since this disease typically affects older people, it is natural to ask: is it possible to detect Alzheimer’s before it occurs? Can one detect any signs of Alzheimer’s? How do I know when it’s time to take my family member to a doctor?

Remember that Alzheimer’s disease is caused by degeneration of brain cells and loss of brain mass. This in turn causes memory loss and affects behavior, as well as social interactions.

The reason why an early diagnosis is important is that while Alzheimer’s has no cure, there are certain prescription drugs that can slow its progression and relieve some of the symptoms.

Detecting Signs of Alzheimer’s: Is It Possible?

Ongoing research aims to detect the onset of this disease at an early stage. However, there are still no decisive methods. It is known that certain symptoms begin to occur.

If these symptoms are consistent – that is, they occur simultaneously or over the same period – it is recommended that you see a specialist immediately. A neurologist will be responsible for confirming whether it is Alzheimer’s and how to control this or slow its progression.

A progressive disease

Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s disease worsens over time. There are certain stages of its progression that can be identified. In the beginning, the disease is in a mild stage. During this time, the patient becomes a little slower.

They generally begin to lose their language skills. Plus, they may also get lost in a conversation and have difficulty following their own mindset, as well as that of others. They may also lose their energy and feel exhausted. They may experience difficulties when trying to learn new concepts or perform new tasks.

However, these symptoms are not noticeable and can be confused with the normal aging process.

What are the symptoms?

There are additional symptoms in the moderate stage of the disease that are more characteristic of Alzheimer’s and therefore easier to identify.

Short-term memory loss

A recurring symptom in people who have Alzheimer’s is their loss of short-term memory. They may not remember what they said a few minutes ago, or they may repeatedly ask the same thing.

They also tend to forget where they have left certain objects. Conversely, patients with Alzheimer’s will be able to remember events that happened much longer ago.

Loss of sense of space and time

Certain dates will be forgotten and other references will be lost as the seasons change. Because of this, it is very easy for people with Alzheimer’s to get lost when they forget how they arrived at a particular place or what route they took.

Difficulties with justification

Problems arise with reasoning or thinking with numbers, and it becomes impossible for them to create an agenda. Their sequential rational thoughts change. This means that they have difficulty balancing a checkbook or performing activities in steps, such as cooking.

Limitations on performing regular daily activities

It can be difficult to take a bath or shower, find a home, perform work activities and much more.

Bad mood

Certain depressive disorders and self-absorption  are common along with anxiety or irritability. In general, the personality of people with Alzheimer’s changes.

Confusion of images and objects

Changes in vision are also common. There may be complications with reading, judging the distance between things or with the perception of colors.

Loss of language skills

Alzheimer’s patients will find it difficult to articulate what they are trying to say, and confusion can result. A common behavioral trait is that a person stops a conversation to try to remember the name of something. They can try very hard but without results.

A patient with Alzheimer’s can also invent new words when they cannot find the right word for a particular thing.

Good judgment disappears: An important sign of Alzheimer’s

A person suffering from Alzheimer’s can give money to family members or strangers for no reason or pay more than they should in other situations. They can walk away from a cash register without waiting for their return money.

In the more advanced stages, it is impossible for the patient to make decisions.

The detection of Alzheimer’s signs can be very complicated. Not all symptoms occur at the same time or in the same way in everyone.

It is best to go to a specialist when you observe signs of Alzheimer’s. First, rule out any other disorders. Then start an appropriate treatment.