Alzheimer’s Early Signs
One in 10 people aged 65 and over are affected by dementia in Australia.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder which leads the brain to shrink and brain cells to eventually die. Being the most common cause of dementia, the disease features gradual decline in memory, thinking and reasoning abilities. These changes affect a person’s ability to function on a daily basis.
While some degree of memory loss is a natural part of ageing, cognitive decline that severely interferes daily activities and functions may be an indication of Alzheimer’s disease. Before it develops to an advanced stage, detecting early signs of Alzheimer’s and promptly treating it can help improve or slow progression of its symptoms.
So here are 4 early signs of Alzheimer’s disease to monitor:
1. Challenges in Planning or Problem-Solving
- Alzheimer’s disease causes a decline in the person’s cognitive ability to make sensible judgements and reasoning. Therefore, it is difficult to concentrate, taking the individual longer to navigate through tasks compared to the previous ability.
- Examples of challenges include managing monthly bills, making decisions while driving, and knowing what to do when food burns.
2. Difficulty in Completing Familiar Tasks
- Routine activities that require completing steps can become a struggle. So if a person is having trouble performing familiar tasks at home, work, or during leisure activities, this can be a warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Some everyday tasks that a person with Alzheimer’s may struggle with are finding a way home, cooking a familiar meal and playing a favourite game.
3. Degrading Vision and Balance
- In some cases, there may be changes in vision, which can be an early indicator for Alzheimer’s disease.
- Poor vision can interfere with body alignment, making it hard to maintain good balance while moving around.
4. Mood and Personality Change
- Changes to the brain that occur with Alzheimer’s disease can affect moods and behaviours of a person. Some signs include depression, social withdrawal, mood swings, aggression and suspicion.
- The person with Alzheimer’s may also easily become upset with people around them, or while being in unfamiliar environments.
There are a number of conditions that contribute to Alzheimer’s disease and so far, no particular cause has been found. So, if you notice early signs of the disease in a family member or friend, seek help from a health care professional. Receive a proper assessment and necessary help.
