7 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. While occasional forgetfulness is normal, certain patterns may signal something more serious.
Here are 7 early warning signs to watch for:
1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life
Forgetting recently learned information is one of the most common early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Examples:
- Repeatedly asking the same questions
- Forgetting important dates or events
- Relying heavily on reminder notes or family members
Occasionally forgetting names but remembering them later is normal — consistent short-term memory loss is not.
2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems
People may experience:
- Trouble following a familiar recipe
- Difficulty keeping track of monthly bills
- Problems concentrating on detailed tasks
They may take much longer to do things they once handled easily.
3. Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks
A person might:
- Get lost driving to a familiar location
- Forget how to use common household appliances
- Struggle with routine errands
4. Confusion with Time or Place
They may:
- Lose track of dates or seasons
- Forget where they are or how they got there
- Have trouble understanding something that isn’t happening immediately
5. Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing
Early symptoms can include:
- Stopping mid-conversation with no idea how to continue
- Repeating themselves
- Struggling to find the right word
6. Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
People may:
- Put objects in unusual places (e.g., keys in the refrigerator)
- Be unable to retrace their steps
- Accuse others of stealing
7. Changes in Mood or Personality
Someone in early stages may become:
- Confused, suspicious, depressed, or anxious
- Easily upset at home, work, or with friends
- Withdrawn from hobbies or social activities
When to See a Doctor
If you notice one or more of these signs, especially if they are worsening over time, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can help with:
- Treatment options
- Lifestyle planning
- Support resources
- Slowing symptom progression
If you’d like, I can also share:
- ✔️ How Alzheimer’s is diagnosed
- ✔️ Risk factors and prevention tips
- ✔️ Differences between normal aging and dementia
- ✔️ What to do if a loved one shows symptoms
Just let me know.
