Recognizing changes related to Alzheimer’s
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a typical part of aging. It may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Every individual may experience one or more of these signs in different degrees. If you notice any of them, see a doctor.
Memory changes that disrupt daily life: One of the most common signs of AD, especially in the early stages, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; relying on memory aids (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) for things they used to handle on their own.
What’s typical? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remember them later.
Challenges in planning or solving problems: Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills or have difficulty concentrating.
What’s typical? Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure – AD patients often find it hard to complete daily tasks. People may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
What’s typical? Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave or to record a television show.
Confusion with time or place:People with AD can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.
What’s typical? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.
Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships – For some people, having vision problems is a sign of AD. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast. They may pass a mirror and think they see someone else is in the room.
What’s typical? Vision changes related to cataracts.
Problems with words: AD patients may have trouble following conversation. They may stop speaking and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary or call things by the wrong name.
What’s typical? Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps: A person with AD may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. They may accuse others of stealing.
What’s typical? Misplacing things from time to time, such as a pair of glasses.
Decreased or poor judgment: People with AD may experience changes in judgment or decision-making. They may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming.
What’s typical? Making a bad decision once in a while.
Withdrawal from work or social activities: A person with AD may stop hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may avoid being social.
What’s typical? Sometimes feeling weary of work, family and social obligations.
Changes in mood and personality: The mood and personalities of people with AD can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.
What’s typical? Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.
Barbara Hanson is director of community resource development for the Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging. For information about senior services, call the Senior Helpline at (800) 642-5119 or 786-5991 or visit www.svcoa.org.
SOURCE: www.rutlandherald.com
