by: Melanie Farley
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and by 2050, that number is expected to grow to nearly 13 million. Additionally, the lifetime risk for Alzheimer’s is 1 in 5 for women and 1 in 10 for men.
So, it’s important to understand some of the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s because detecting it early could be key to slowing the progression of the disease and living a longer, happier life. Read on to learn about 3 of the early warning signs of the disease and when to see a doctor.
Memory Loss
Everybody has memory lapses at times, but memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s persists and worsens. People with Alzheimer’s might have trouble finding the right words for objects or expressing their thoughts.
They might also start to forget places that they know well, misplace items, and ask questions repeatedly. Eventually they will begin to forget family members’ names as well.
Difficulty Performing Everyday Tasks
Since thinking and reasoning becomes increasingly difficult as Alzheimer’s progresses, people with the disease will have difficulty multitasking and performing basic tasks. Balancing a checkbook, paying bills on time, or recognizing numbers will begin to feel impossible.
Eventually, Alzheimer’s patients will also struggle to cook meals or even remember how to dress and bathe themselves.
Changes in Mood and Personality
All the changes in the brain will begin to affect the Alzheimer’s sufferer’s personality and mood as well. You might notice symptoms like depression, mood swings, aggression, delusions, social withdrawal, and more.
When to Talk to a Doctor
If you are noticing one or more of these symptoms in your senior loved one, it can’t hurt to check in with their primary care provider. Early detection and ongoing memory care support can help slow the progression of the disease.
A Final Word…
Alzheimer’s is an increasingly prevalent problem in the US, so it’s important to be on the lookout for early warning signs of this disease. Although there is currently no cure for the disease, with early detection and ongoing support, seniors can live longer, healthier lives.
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