Alzheimer’s can look like forgetfulness at first. A misplaced phone, a missed appointment, or even a moment of confusion might not seem unusual. However, they’re sometimes a sign of something deeper. Even small signs can signal that a person needs professional support.
Knowing the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease can make a big difference. This condition is subtle, but tends to cause problems with memory, behavior, and problem-solving. If you notice significant changes in a loved one, visit a healthcare professional as soon as possible and consider learning more about memory care.
Some of the common early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include:
- Memory lapses and forgetfulness
- Difficulty planning and solving problems
- Confusion about time and place
- Mood shifts and personality changes
- Problems with vision and spatial skills
- Trouble finding words or communicating
- Poor decision-making habits
What Exactly Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain condition that affects memory, behavior, and thinking over time. It’s the most common cause of dementia, and it makes up roughly 60–80% of all cases of diagnosed dementia. It develops as a result of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
Usually, Alzheimer’s disease develops around a person’s mid-60s. It progresses over time and damages different regions throughout the brain. At first, it may only cause mild forgetfulness, but it eventually leads to the need for full-time care.
It’s important to know that Alzheimer’s is also not considered a part of normal aging. It’s a specific condition that progresses over time and can significantly change a person’s life. Spotting it and managing its effects early can make all the difference in your loved one’s quality of life.
The Common Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
There are many early signs of Alzheimer’s that can appear before a formal diagnosis. If you notice any of the following symptoms in a loved one, visit a healthcare professional. A diagnosis is the first step towards preserving your loved one’s quality of life.
Memory Lapses & Forgetfulness
One of the most recognized signs of Alzheimer’s disease is memory loss—especially short-term memory. It may start with your loved one repeating the same question or story without realizing it.
They might forget recent conversations, misplace everyday items like glasses or keys, or miss important dates. While occasional forgetfulness can happen with age, persistent memory issues may point to something more.
Difficulty Planning & Solving Problems
Changes in the ability to follow steps, organize thoughts, or make plans are another early signal. Tasks like cooking, paying bills, or managing appointments may suddenly feel overwhelming.
Your loved one might miss payments, forget ingredients in a recipe they’ve made for years, or find it hard to follow familiar directions. These challenges can lead to frustration or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.
Confusion About Time & Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or locations can happen in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. A person might ask what day it is—even if they’ve already been told—or feel unsure of where they are. This kind of confusion can lead to feelings of anxiety, especially if they’re alone.
Even small adjustments can reduce this frustration. It helps to make little changes and use things like visual calendars, reminders, and more. This eases their daily experience and restores a sense of predictability to them.
Mood Shifts & Personality Changes
Personality change is one of the more emotional signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Your loved one might seem more anxious, irritable, or withdrawn than usual. They may react strongly to minor frustrations, become suspicious of loved ones, or avoid social interaction. These changes aren’t a reflection of their feelings—they’re a reflection of changes in the brain.
Staying patient is key here. You’ll want to approach every conversation with warmth—this is essential for reducing the risk of frustration and agitation. It helps to trust a team of professionals at this stage, as they can help maintain your loved one’s quality of life.
Problems with Vision & Spatial Skills
It’s not just memory that’s affected when Alzheimer’s disease is at play. Spatial awareness and vision-related challenges are also common. Your loved one might start bumping into furniture or misjudging distances, especially when navigating stairs or cluttered spaces.
These changes can increase the risk of falls or collisions, especially at home. If you notice your loved one struggles to safely navigate their environment, don’t ignore it. This is often overlooked, but it’s a common indication of changes in the brain.
Trouble Finding Words or Communicating
A loved one may begin to struggle with communication issues like recalling specific words or keeping up with a conversation. They might pause often, substitute words awkwardly, or seem frustrated during a discussion. In some cases, they may avoid socializing altogether—not because they don’t want to talk, but because finding the words becomes difficult.
Keeping communication simple and supportive helps reduce frustration and encourages connection. It takes time to learn to change your communication strategy, but it’s key. This helps strengthen your bond with your loved one, despite their cognitive condition.
Poor Decision-Making Habits
Unusual choices can be another early sign of cognitive changes. You might see your loved one giving away large sums of money, dressing inappropriately for the weather, or ignoring obvious safety risks. These shifts can lead to confusion or danger, so they shouldn’t be ignored.
Recognizing the Right Time for Support
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. These changes can be hard to accept, but catching them early makes a difference.
If your loved one is dealing with signs of Alzheimer’s disease, it could be time for a change, and our team at Boden Senior Living in Maplewood is here to help. Book a tour today to schedule a visit or talk about memory care options that fit your loved one’s needs.
