Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is characterized by cognitive deteriotion, along with the decline of behavioral abilities. Globally, Alzheimer's disease contributes to 60%-70% of cases of dementia, making it a significant public health issue. While the disease predominantly affects people over the age of 65, changes in the brain caused by Alzheimer's can begin years before symptoms appear.
One of the earliest signs of Alzheimer's disease is forgetfulness. While it's true that everyone forgets things from time to time, people with Alzheimer's often forget recently learned information, crucial dates, or events. They may rely on memory aids, notes, or family members for things they once managed on their own.
Another common sign is difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or during leisure activities. They may struggle with driving to a known location, managing a budget, or remembering the rules of a favorite game – tasks they would have done easily before.
Further signs include trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships, marked by difficulty reading, judging distance or color, or problems recognizing their own reflection. Some individuals may have problems following or joining a conversation, repeating phrases or sentences, and having trouble finding the right word or calling things by the wrong name. This is because Alzheimer's disease affects the brain's language and speech centers, causing these communication issues.
A pivotal sign of Alzheimer's disease is changes in mood or personality. People with Alzheimer's may become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They may also become easily upset at home or in unfamiliar places. This could be in stark contrast to their past behavior, marking a significant shift.
Subtle changes in judgment or decision-making can also signal the onset of Alzheimer's, such as making poor financial decisions or paying less attention to grooming and cleanliness. A decrease in motivation or initiative, often shown through passivity and a reluctance to engage in social or work activities, is another sign of this disease.
It is important to note that these signs do not definitively indicate Alzheimer's and could be symptoms of other conditions. Hence, if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms consistently, it would be crucial to seek medical advice early. While no cure is available, early diagnosis will allow for better management and treatment of symptoms, potentially slowing the disease's progression.
Alzheimer's disease is a journey, not only for those diagnosed but also for their families and caregivers. Recognizing these early signs can lead to earlier intervention, easing the disease's impact, providing a better quality of life, and promoting identification and development of suitable treatments.