Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a physical disease that affects the brain. It impacts sufferers’ cognitive ability and as time progresses their memory, thinking and reasoning skills deteriorate. As dementia care specialists we’ve identified 10 warning signs for Alzheimer’s that you should be looking out for in your elderly loved one. If you notice any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Book an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
Memory Loss
Memory loss that affects daily life should not be ignored. An individual may begin to appear more forgetful than normal. Forgetting important dates in their diary can occur.
If questions become repetitive and frequent reminders need to be given, you should consult a doctor.
Having Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks
People living with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Difficulty commuting to familiar locations, organising a grocery list or remembering rules of their favourite games, are all examples of what someone developing Alzheimer’s may be experiencing.
Difficulty Planning And Problem-Solving
Alzheimer’s may become more apparent if your loved one has difficulty planning and executing an action plan. Working with calculations may also prove difficult for them.
This is often experienced when they demonstrate problems maintaining their monthly bills or managing their savings.
Getting Confused About The Time Or Place
Losing track of dates and time are also two common symptoms. This makes planning for future events even more difficult.
As symptoms progress, people living with Alzheimer’s become increasingly forgetful about where they are and how they got there.
Problems With Eyesight
Visual impairment can also occur which can cause difficulties with reading.
Long distancing viewing may also be affected, meaning that judging distance and determining contrast or colour when driving can be problematic.
Losing Things
Your loved one may begin placing items in unusual places such as putting keys in the fridge or the cupboard. They also have difficulty retracing their steps to find the lost item. This may result in paranoia as they believe that others are stealing from them.
Difficulty Finding The Right Words
Those who live with Alzheimer’s may feel isolated when in groups or pairs as they may have trouble finding the right words to join in on the conversation. They may stop in the middle of the conversation and have no idea how to carry the conversation without repetition. They may struggle with vocabulary, have trouble naming a familiar object or use the wrong name to describe something.
Experiencing Personality Changes
Gradual changes in behaviour and personality may occur. A noticeable change in mood can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Fearfulness
When something outside of the ‘norm’ occurs, those living with Alzheimer’s may feel increasingly irritated when it takes place.
Shying Away From Social Interactions
As symptoms appear, you may notice your loved one becoming increasingly withdrawn from social gatherings and interactions. For example, they may not wish to visit family members’ houses as often to attend events or to celebrate an occasion. Workplace events may also be avoided by those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Avoidance can increase as symptoms worsen.
Decision-Making Skills Deteriorate
Financial choices may demonstrate poor judgement. For example, someone living with Alzheimer’s may be more of a target to telemarketers which results in them donating large sums of money to their organisation.
Physical hygiene also becomes less of a priority. Your loved one may experience a rapid decline in bathing frequency and feel more resistant to changing clothes on a daily basis.
Dementia Care In Trafford
If you notice one or more of these signs in your loved one please arrange a consultation with a doctor who can offer a course of treatment.
Coping with a family member with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia is incredibly stressful and distressing for all parties involved. It’s important to look after your own health, as well as that of the person with dementia. When you’re caring for someone else, it’s easy to overlook your own needs.
Our dementia care services allow your loved one to remain in the comfort of their own home while giving you peace of mind that they are receiving tailor made care.