Alzheimer's disease affects primarily the elderly, though occasionally adults in their 40s show symptoms too. These Early Signs of Alzheimer's, unique to each individual, typically begin subtly. Early detection plays a crucial role in the effective management of the disease.
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Key Early Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Observable memory loss is one of the most pronounced early indicators of Alzheimer’s. While everyone forgets minor details occasionally, a person with Alzheimer’s may struggle to recall recently learned information or repeatedly forget important details like their address or where they parked their car. These memory lapses are more than occasional and can significantly disrupt daily life.
To cope with their frequent forgetfulness and disorientation, individuals with Alzheimer’s might start using memory aids, such as jotting down their home address or other important information. Additionally, they might misplace everyday objects in unusual places — like leaving a pair of glasses in the hamper or their mobile phone in a kitchen closet — and then be unable to retrace their steps to find them again. Such frequent losses can lead to paranoia and suspicion among individuals as they struggle with their memory gaps.
Decline in Social Engagement and Cognitive Functions
As the disease progresses, individuals might become increasingly withdrawn, avoiding social interactions due to embarrassment or frustration over their memory lapses. This may lead to a noticeable decline in their social life and previously enjoyed activities, manifesting as a lack of enthusiasm or emotional instability.
Communication also becomes challenging. Persons with Alzheimer's may forget words or substitute standard terms with vague descriptions, such as saying “socks for your hands” instead of “gloves.” These linguistic hurdles can be a clear sign of advancing dementia.
Impaired Decision-Making and Care
As cognitive decline intensifies, affected individuals might show poor judgment and decision-making skills. This could result in risky behaviors, such as inappropriate spending, mishandling dangerous objects, or falling prey to scams. Moreover, they may neglect personal care or important tasks, such as ignoring a serious health issue or maintaining personal hygiene.
Hope Amidst Challenges
Despite the difficulties Alzheimer’s presents, significant research strides provide hope for effective treatments and a possible cure. Numerous organizations and professionals are also available to offer support, teach coping skills, and help manage symptoms, aiding both those affected and their families in navigating these challenges.
Medicinal Treatments for Alzheimer's Include the following:
- FDA-Approved Medications:
Cholinesterase Inhibitors:
- Donepezil (Aricept)
- Rivastigmine (Exelon)
- Galantamine (Razadyne)
- Memantine (Namenda) works differently than cholinesterase inhibitors often used in combination therapy.
- Newer Treatments:
- Aducanumab (Aduhelm)
- Lecanemab (Leqembi)
Talk to a healthcare professional to understand the type and dosage recommended for you.
Care and Services
Early recognition and proactive management are crucial in dealing with Alzheimer’s, aiming to preserve the quality of life and functionality as much as possible. In the meantime, according to the Alzheimer's association, there are things you can do to care for a loved one with Alzheimer's:
Alzheimer’s Association Services
- 24/7 Helpline: Call 800.272.3900 for free, confidential support anytime. Access reliable information, advice, crisis assistance, and emotional support with trained staff, including help in your preferred language.
- Local Resources: Find local offices offering free or low-cost support groups and educational programs, often in multiple languages. Locate resources by calling the helpline.
- Support Programs: Connect with others through local or online support groups like AlzConnected® for encouragement and shared experiences.
- Education Programs: Empower yourself with knowledge about Alzheimer's through various educational programs available in communities or online, covering topics like understanding Alzheimer's, managing money, and more.
- Early-stage Engagement: Participate in social activities with others in the early stages of Alzheimer's.
- Online Tools: Utilize free tools like ALZConnected® for community support, ALZNavigator™ for guidance, TrialMatch® for clinical studies, Community Resource Finder, and Live Well tools for managing challenges.
- Safety: Prepare for safety issues such as driving and medication management; consider enrolling in a wandering response service to maintain independence longer.
For additional details or assistance, contact the Alzheimer's Association helpline.