Alzheimer’s Disease is a type of dementia that affects a person’s memory, thinking, and behavior. It is a progressive disease that gets worse over time and is unfortunately incurable.

So how do you know if someone has Alzheimer’s Disease or is just experiencing some normal forgetfulness or aging? Here are 6 tell-tale signs that could indicate Alzheimer’s Disease.

1. Memory Loss

The most common symptom of Alzheimer’s Disease is memory loss.

This is not just simply forgetting where you put your keys or what you had for breakfast, but rather forgetting important information or events, not recognizing family members or friends, and repeating the same stories or questions over and over again. People with Alzheimer’s Disease may also forget how to do simple tasks they used to know how to do, like tying their shoes or using the phone.

2. Difficulty with Problem-Solving and Planning

As Alzheimer’s Disease progresses, people may have difficulty with problem-solving and planning. They may struggle to follow a recipe they’ve made dozens of times before or forget how to play a game they used to enjoy.

They may also have trouble paying bills or managing finances. These difficulties can cause frustration and anxiety for the person with Alzheimer’s Disease, as well as their loved ones.

3. Difficulty with Familiar Tasks

People with Alzheimer’s Disease may have difficulty with tasks that used to be familiar to them. They may struggle to get dressed, brush their teeth, or take a shower.

They may also forget how to get to familiar places, like the grocery store or their doctor’s office. This can lead to feelings of confusion and disorientation and can make them feel more dependent on others for help.

4. Misplacing Items

Another common symptom of Alzheimer’s Disease is misplacing items. People with the disease may put things in unusual places and then forget where they put them.

This can lead to frustration and anxiety when they can’t find what they’re looking for, and can also cause loved ones to worry that they’re stealing or hiding things on purpose. They may also accuse others of stealing their things.

5. Changes in Mood and Personality

Alzheimer’s Disease can also cause changes in a person’s mood and personality. They may become more easily agitated, anxious, or depressed. They may also become more withdrawn and less interested in things they used to enjoy.

They may also behave in ways that are out of character for them, like becoming aggressive or paranoid.

6. Difficulty with Communication

As Alzheimer’s Disease progresses, people may have difficulty with communication. They may struggle to find the right words to express themselves, or they may repeat the same words or phrases over and over again.

They may also have trouble following a conversation or understanding what other people are saying, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional.

While Alzheimer’s Disease is incurable, there are treatments and therapies that can help to slow its progression and improve quality of life. It’s also important to remember that forgetfulness and other symptoms can be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to speak with a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.