Early Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

One of the most prevalent neuro-degenerative illnesses and a common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s. Each person’s indications and symptoms are unique, and the early stages tend to be inconspicuous. Although it typically affects older people, it can occasionally affect adults in their 40s as well.

In this article, we will explore the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, which should never be dismissed, and how they differ from everyday forgetfulness.

Memory Loss

Memory loss is one of the hallmark symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. According to a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 80% of people with early Alzheimer's report difficulties remembering recent events, even when other cognitive functions appear intact. Unlike occasional forgetfulness, which happens to everyone, Alzheimer's-related memory loss is persistent and disruptive.

For instance, individuals may repeatedly ask the same question despite receiving an answer or forget significant recent conversations, events, or appointments. As the disease progresses, people may even forget familiar names or places, including close friends and family members, creating emotional distress for both the affected individuals and their loved ones.

Misplacing Items

Research by the National Institute on Aging highlights that misplacing objects is another common early sign of Alzheimer's. Unlike typical forgetfulness—such as misplacing your keys occasionally—people with Alzheimer's frequently put items in strange places, such as leaving car keys in the refrigerator or placing a wallet in the bathroom cabinet.

A 2021 case study in Neurobiology of Aging reported that nearly 65% of patients with early Alzheimer's exhibit repetitive behavior, such as searching for items they cannot find, often leading to frustration and suspicion of theft. This behavior is not only inconvenient but can also result in emotional strain and paranoia, requiring family intervention.

As Alzheimer's progresses, the person may begin to withdraw from social interactions and activities that they once enjoyed. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including embarrassment about memory lapses, frustration with cognitive difficulties, and a growing sense of isolation. Social withdrawal may be accompanied by changes in mood and personality, such as increased irritability or a general lack of interest in things that used to bring joy.

A person who once enjoyed meeting friends for coffee or attending family gatherings may stop engaging in these activities. They may also begin to withdraw from hobbies or work responsibilities. This behavior can signal an early warning sign of Alzheimer's and should not be ignored.

Language and Communication Issues

Struggling to find the right words during conversations is another common early symptom of Alzheimer's. While it’s normal to forget a word occasionally, people with Alzheimer's disease will frequently experience this problem. They may pause in the middle of a sentence or use vague language, such as saying "the thing" instead of a specific word. They may also repeat themselves often or struggle to follow or join in on a conversation.

At some point, the person may stop speaking altogether or become unable to understand what others are saying. This decline in communication skills can be particularly distressing for both the person with Alzheimer's and their loved ones.

Difficulty with Decision-Making

People with Alzheimer's disease often experience significant changes in their judgment and decision-making abilities. They may make poor financial decisions, such as giving away large sums of money to unfamiliar people or purchasing unnecessary items. Their ability to evaluate risks, such as driving in unsafe conditions or neglecting personal hygiene, may also be compromised.

This decline in decision-making ability is concerning, as it can lead to dangerous situations or expose the individual to fraud or scams. Family members and caregivers may need to step in to help protect the person from making harmful choices.

Conclusion

Recognizing the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease is crucial for seeking timely medical intervention and support. While occasional forgetfulness or lapses in concentration are common in everyone, Alzheimer's disease is characterized by persistent and worsening symptoms that interfere with daily life. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

If you or someone you know is experiencing the signs of Alzheimer's, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Though Alzheimer's can be a difficult and emotional journey, ongoing research and advancements in treatment options provide hope for those living with the disease and their families.