Alzheimer's Disease: Symptoms To Look Out For

May 30, 2022

2 min read

Alzheimer’s is a neurologic disorder that affects more than 5 million people over the age of 65. This disease causes atrophy (shrinking) in the brain, resulting in cellular death. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease is often provided upon initial mild symptoms. However, scientists believe the damage to the brain begins several years before the onset of symptoms in many. While symptoms appear at differing rates, varying from one person to the next, there are a few classic or tell-tale signs to be aware of.

Is Alzheimer’s a normal part of aging?

No, Alzheimer’s Disease is not a normal attribute of the aging process. Though it is more common in people over 65 years old, Alzheimer’s Disease can affect people much younger - known as early-onset Alzheimer’s. If there is a family history of genetic Alzheimer’s Disease in your family, a person is at an increased risk of developing early-onset Alzheimer’s as early as 30 years of age.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

The beginning stages of this disease process produce mild symptoms that progressively worsen as the disease progresses. Though early symptoms are often not life-threatening, they can impact a person’s ability to be self-sufficient. A person may experience:

Memory impairment

During the initial onset of Alzheimer’s Disease, a person may begin showing significant memory problems. This may include repetition of questions, memory loss, wandering or getting lost, and misplacing common household items like the telephone, car keys, or television remote.

Problems with language

You may notice your significant other, mother, or father has begun experiencing difficulty following along with a conversation or experiencing difficulty reading, writing, or doing mathematical work. Because Alzheimer’s Disease causes brain cell death, the more this disease progresses the more trouble your loved one will experience with language and communication.

Mood and personality changes

People experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease may begin to feel uncomfortable in certain social settings, and can lead to increased agitation, anxiety, depression, or fear. These feelings can occur whether a person is at home or outside of their comfort zone in a public area.

When to see a doctor

As symptoms of forgetfulness or serious mood changes become more apparent, you may grow concerned for your loved ones' wellbeing, insisting they seek consultation from their primary care physician. It is important to consult a medical provider as the first symptom appears as early detection will help to enhance the person’s quality of life and help them get the therapy or additional help needed.

Alzheimer’s Disease has no known cure, however, treatment to address brain health, slow symptoms, and treat behavioral or mood changes is available. It is important to consider therapy or counseling for the patient, as well as caregivers, as it can become increasingly difficult to see your loved one slowly decline.