Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and irreversible condition that affects brain function, particularly memory, thinking and behaviour.

It is one of the most common types of dementia and usually affects people over 65, although it can occur at any age. There are many early signs of Alzheimer’s disease that should not be ignored. Recognizing these symptoms early on can help individuals seek early treatment and potentially slow the progression of the disease.

1. Memory Loss

The most common early sign of Alzheimer’s disease is memory loss. It may start with forgetting recently learned information or important dates and events. Individuals may also forget important appointments or conversations they had a short time ago.

As the disease progresses, the memory loss may become more significant and a person may forget the names of family members, friends, and common objects.

2. Difficulty with Planning and Problem Solving

Many individuals with Alzheimer’s disease also have difficulty with planning and problem solving. They may struggle to complete tasks that require multiple steps or may have difficulty managing finances and paying bills.

They may become easily frustrated and overwhelmed.

3. Difficulty completing Familiar Tasks

Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may also have difficulty completing familiar tasks. They may forget how to prepare a simple meal or perform a regular household chore.

They may also have trouble following directions, even if it is something they have done many times before.

4. Changes in Mood and Personality

Alzheimer’s disease can also cause changes in mood and personality. People may become easily agitated, anxious or depressed, especially in situations that are unfamiliar or uncomfortable.

They may also become more irritable and have sudden mood swings for no apparent reason.

5. Confusion with Time and Place

Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may also struggle with orientation to time and place. They may have difficulty understanding the time of day or the day of the week.

They may also become lost in familiar places, such as the grocery store or their own home.

6. Trouble with Communication

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, individuals may have trouble with communication. They may struggle to find the right words to express themselves or may have difficulty understanding what others are saying.

They may also repeat themselves frequently or become frustrated when they are not understood.

7. Difficulty with Decision Making

Alzheimer’s disease can also make decision making more difficult. Individuals may have trouble making simple decisions, such as what to wear or what to eat. They may become indecisive and need more time and help to make everyday choices.

8. Decreased Judgement

People with Alzheimer’s disease may also display a decreased sense of judgement. They may make poor choices, such as giving large amounts of money to telemarketers or strangers.

They may also become more trusting of people they should be wary of, such as scam artists.

9. Withdrawal from Activities

Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may also withdraw from activities they previously enjoyed. They may no longer feel interested in hobbies or social events, and may become isolated.

They may also become easily overwhelmed or anxious in situations that were previously enjoyable.

10. Changes in Vision and Perception

Changes in vision and perception may also occur in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. They may have difficulty with depth perception and may experience difficulty judging distances. They may also have trouble reading or differentiating colours.

It is important to recognize the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and seek medical advice.

There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and potentially slow the progression of the disease.