Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the memory, thinking, and behavior of those afflicted with it.

It is a debilitating condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s life and the lives of their loved ones.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic condition characterized by the buildup of proteins in the brain that interfere with the normal functioning of nerve cells.

This can result in the death of brain cells and the deterioration of brain tissue, which can ultimately lead to memory loss, cognitive impairment, and changes in behavior and personality.

What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease?

One of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease is a gradual decline in memory. Individuals with Alzheimer’s may have difficulty recalling recent events or conversations, and they may ask the same questions over and over again.

They may also have trouble planning and completing familiar tasks, such as paying bills or cooking a meal. Other early signs of Alzheimer’s disease may include:.

Difficulty with abstract thinking
Losing track of time or getting lost in familiar places
Misplacing items and being unable to retrace steps to find them
Changes in mood or personality

Can giving away money be an early sign of Alzheimer’s?

One of the lesser-known early signs of Alzheimer’s disease is giving away money or other valuable items without explanation.

This behavior is referred to as “financial giving” or “donative behavior,” and it may be a red flag for family members and loved ones to look out for when monitoring the health of an aging family member.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, financial giving is a symptom that occurs in approximately 6-7% of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

The behavior often goes unnoticed or is dismissed as a generous or kind gesture, but it can have significant consequences for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families.

Why do individuals with Alzheimer’s give away money?

The exact reason why individuals with Alzheimer’s give away money is not clear. Some researchers speculate that the behavior is a result of confusion or delusions caused by the disease.

Others suggest that individuals with Alzheimer’s may be trying to reaffirm their identity or control in a world that is becoming increasingly unfamiliar to them.

Whatever the reason, financial giving can have serious consequences for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families.

It can lead to financial difficulties, loss of assets, and even exploitation by unscrupulous individuals who take advantage of the individual’s cognitive impairment.

What should you do if you suspect financial giving is a sign of Alzheimer’s disease?

If you suspect that financial giving is a sign of Alzheimer’s disease in a loved one or family member, it is important to talk to them about their behavior and seek medical attention.

A physician can perform a complete evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the behavior and recommend appropriate treatment and support.

In some cases, a physician may recommend a comprehensive cognitive evaluation, which may include imaging tests, cognitive tests, and neurological exams.

This can help to identify any underlying cognitive impairment and provide a baseline for monitoring the progression of the disease.

How can you prevent financial giving in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease?

Preventing financial giving in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging, but there are steps that families and loved ones can take to reduce the risk of financial exploitation and protect the individual’s assets.

One of the most effective strategies is to ensure that the individual’s financial affairs are in order before the onset of dementia.

This may involve working with an attorney to establish power of attorney or guardianship, setting up automatic bill payments and direct deposits, and creating a budget to manage expenses.

It is also important to monitor the individual’s financial transactions regularly and to be alert for any unusual or suspicious activity.

This can include reviewing bank statements, monitoring credit card activity, and checking in regularly with the individual’s financial institution.

Conclusion

Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating condition that affects millions of individuals and their families around the world.

While early signs of the disease often involve memory loss and cognitive impairment, financial giving can also be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease and should be taken seriously by family members and loved ones.

If you suspect that financial giving is a sign of Alzheimer’s disease in a loved one or family member, it is important to seek medical attention and take steps to protect the individual’s assets and financial well-being.

By working together and taking proactive steps to manage the impact of Alzheimer’s disease, we can improve the quality of life for individuals with the disease and their families.