How to Identify The Signs of Alzheimers Disease

Alzheimer's is a disease of the brain that gradually takes a toll on an individual's ability to remember, reason, and think. There are a vast number of warning signs that indicate the presence of Alzheimer's disease, but they aren't always easily noticeable. If you suspect that a loved one is suffering the ill effects of this condition, you can use this guide as a starting point to compare signs. Keep in mind that this guide is not to be used in place of a real diagnosis from a physician.

Look for Recurring Patterns

It's quite normal to forget things from time to time, but chronic forgetfulness is a telltale sign of Alzheimer's disease. Think about it like this—forgetting to pay a bill is an unfortunate occurrence, but it can easily happen to anyone. However, there is something to be said when a person pays a bill four different times, or if they forget to pay their bills for months on end.

Remember that Signs Can Indicate Other Problems

Even though certain symptoms might lead you to believe your loved one suffers from Alzheimer's disease, they could stem from other conditions altogether. Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid conditions, and depression can all cause problems with forgetfulness. The difference with Alzheimer's disease is that its signs and symptoms will worsen over time.

Know the Cognitive and Behavioral Symptoms

There a number of telltale signs that are commonly noticed in patients with Alzheimer's. Cognitive signs include the inability to retain short term memory, the inability to verbally communicate effectively (repeating words/sentences or not recalling words that they want to say), chronic confusion, the inability to judge situations, concentration troubles, misplacing or losing items altogether.

Patients with Alzheimer's will also exhibit behavioral signs. A memory care expert from Crimson Ridge Meadows says these can include mood swings, becoming more agitated as the day goes on, the inability to get a good night's rest, irritability and anger. The behavioral signs experienced by patients commonly drive relatives to find additional help and support (long term care or a home health aide). In some cases, aggression can become so severe that it can place the loved one or their family and friends in danger.

Each Case is Different

The common warning signs of Alzheimer's disease are quite distinctive, but each person will experience their own types and severity of symptoms. This is why it's imperative to get a proper diagnosis before making any major decisions.