Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that results in memory loss, impaired thinking, and changes in behavior. It is the most common form of dementia, affecting more than 5 million Americans. AD usually develops slowly and progressively over a number of years, and the early signs can be difficult to spot. Keep reading to learn more about the earlier signs of Alzheimer’s and what you can do to help.
Difficulty With Communication
Difficulty communicating can be an early sign of Alzheimer’s. It can manifest itself in a number of ways, including having trouble finding the right words, struggling to follow a conversation, or becoming easily confused. This can be a difficult thing for both the person with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones to deal with. It can be frustrating for the person with Alzheimer’s when they can’t express themselves the way they want to, and it can be heartbreaking for their loved ones to see them struggling.
However, there are things that can be done to help make communication easier. loved ones can try to keep conversations simple and straightforward, and they can make sure to give the person with Alzheimer’s plenty of time to respond. It’s also important to remember that communication difficulties are just one sign of Alzheimer’s, and they don’t necessarily mean that a person has the disease. If you are concerned about someone’s communication abilities, it’s best to talk to your doctor.
Mood Changes
Mood changes are one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s. In the early stages, people with the disease may experience mood swings, irritability, or depression. As the disease progresses, these symptoms can become more severe and lead to emotional outbursts, confusion, and paranoia. The reason emotional changes are one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s is that the disease affects the parts of the brain that controls emotions. The hippocampus, for example, is responsible for memory and learning, and it’s one of the first areas of the brain to be affected by Alzheimer’s. It also affects the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain. This can lead to emotional changes, including depression and anxiety. If you’re noticing that your loved one is having emotional changes, it’s important to take it seriously and get them evaluated by a doctor.
Withdrawal From Social Activities
It is not uncommon for people with Alzheimer’s disease to gradually withdraw from social activities. This can be an early sign of the condition. As the disease progresses, individuals may lose interest in things they used to enjoy and become increasingly isolated. There are a number of reasons why people with Alzheimer’s might withdraw from social activities. They may have difficulty remembering names or recalling what happened at a party. They may also feel overwhelmed by conversations or social situations. As the disease progresses, individuals may lose the ability to communicate effectively and may become frustrated or agitated.
Having Troubling Handling Money or Using Appliances
When it comes to handling money, using appliances, or completing other tasks, early signs of Alzheimer’s can include difficulty with any kind of coordination. For some people, this may mean they have trouble counting out change or balancing a checkbook. Others may have trouble using the stove or oven, or even turning on a faucet. Many families first notice these changes when their loved one starts having trouble with daily activities. Often, these early signs of Alzheimer’s can be frustrating and confusing for both the person with the disease and their loved ones.
Overall, it is important to be aware of the early signs of the disease, as they may be an indication that someone is developing the condition. While there is no definitive way to prevent Alzheimer’s, early detection may allow for earlier intervention and treatment, which could improve the person’s quality of life.
