Everyone forgets things from time to time. But when someone frequently forgets names, struggles to follow a conversation or repeats themselves, or begins to misplace objects regularly, these can be warning signs of early Alzheimer’s.
Take note of any new symptoms you or a loved one experiences. You can then discuss them with a doctor, who will perform a series of tests to rule out other causes of the problem.
1. Memory Loss
Everyone forgets things sometimes, but if you regularly forget recent events or conversations, it may be time to see a doctor. Memory loss is the first symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. It happens when amyloid protein builds up in the brain, forming plaques and tangled fibers that block nerve cell communication. Over time, this causes nerve cells to die.
This causes problems such as difficulty finding words, trouble expressing thoughts and a tendency to repeat questions or statements. It can also lead to misplacing items or putting them in strange places.
You might notice that it takes longer to do familiar tasks such as balancing a checkbook or paying bills. Or, you might need help with completing routine tasks like using the microwave or recording TV shows.
2. Changes in Behavior
Many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s experience changes in their behavior. For instance, they may become easily annoyed or frustrated and may be more impulsive than usual. In some cases, their behaviors can be risky and dangerous, such as if they are pacing around the house or trying to leave the home.
They may also start having trouble completing everyday tasks, such as balancing a checkbook or paying bills. They may begin to forget dates or get lost in familiar places. They may also have trouble expressing themselves and use inappropriate words for objects or pause in the middle of a conversation.
They may also start accusing others of stealing or exhibiting rapid mood changes. Try to stay calm and explain that they’re experiencing dementia.
3. Decreased Ability to Communicate
Misplacing the car keys or calling a friend by the wrong name are common age-related changes. But if these slips occur more frequently and interfere with daily living, they may be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
At this stage, your loved one will likely struggle to follow a conversation or to carry out tasks that require planning and reasoning, such as preparing meals or paying bills. They’ll need frequent reminders or may start to rely on memory aids or family members for things they used to manage on their own.
A doctor can determine whether a person’s symptoms are due to Alzheimer’s or something else, such as a vitamin deficiency, a side effect of medication or a more treatable condition. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center has developed an at-home test, called SAGE (for Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination), that detects early warning signs of dementia.
4. Changes in Sleep Patterns
A person with Alzheimer’s may start sleeping more during the day and experience difficulty falling asleep at night. They also might have nightmares.
It is normal to forget things from time to time, but when a loved one starts misplacing items or putting them in odd places — like their car keys in the freezer or accusing others of stealing their possessions — it could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
People with Alzheimer’s have a lower quality of life and live for a shorter period of time than those who do not have the disease. Watch for signs of dementia and talk to your doctor about taking a blood or tissue test that can diagnose Alzheimer’s. This is an important step in planning ahead for end-of-life care.
5. Changes in Vision
A person who experiences frequent changes in vision is at a higher risk of Alzheimer’s. If you notice this symptom, it is important to talk with your doctor.
This symptom is usually an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, and it happens because of changes in the part of the brain that makes good judgments. It can lead to poor decisions, such as giving money to telemarketers or wearing the wrong clothes for the weather.
People who have Alzheimer’s often lose track of dates and times, and may accuse others of stealing when their things go missing. They also have trouble understanding their surroundings. This makes it hard for them to perform everyday tasks, such as putting on shoes or getting the food out of the oven.