Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer's disease, commonly shortened to Alzheimer's, is the most common form of dementia that affects one's cognitive abilities. With many people mistake signs of this degenerative disease for normal signs of aging, it is imperative to know what symptoms may be a cause for concern.

Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Memory Loss

Memory loss is one of the tell-tale signs of the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Some common examples of memory loss include:

• Forgetting significant dates and events.
• Not retaining recently learned information.
• Becoming increasingly dependent on memory aids like notes or voice recordings.

Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks

When living with this degenerative disease, people may have increased difficulty with completing everyday activities and tasks. Some examples of this may include:

• Forgetting driving directions to a familiar place.
• Trouble with budgeting money and paying bills.
• Not remembering rules to games.
• Taking longer to complete simple tasks.

Misplacing Things

While everyone can misplace things from time to time, those living with Alzheimer's tend to put things down in unusual places—making it increasingly difficult to trace their steps and find them. This may also be accompanied by accusing friends and family members of stealing.

New Issues With Verbal & Written Communication

Alzheimer’s can negatively affect a person’s ability to express themselves and may cause trouble following the flow of conversation. Some examples of stifled verbal communication may include:

• Stopping mid-sentence.
• Repeating the same phrase.
• Having trouble remembering words for common objects.

Mood and Personality Changes

When Alzheimer’s affects someone’s cognitive brain function, it can also be accompanied with changes in their mood and personality. Common changes include:

• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Depression
• Irritability

Senior Care in Ridgecrest, California

At Ridgecrest Regional Hospital, our team of trained professionals is dedicated to providing services with maximum independence and dignity to seniors of the Indian Wells Valley and the Rand District with Kern County.

To learn more about our senior services or schedule an appointment, visit our website or give us a call at (760) 446-3551.