Do You Know the Signs of Alzheimer’s?

Forgetting where you placed your keys is not the problem; it’s forgetting what your keys are for. This is an example used to distinguish between Alzheimer’s and normal age-related forgetfulness.

However, determining whether it’s Alzheimer's or dementia (of which Alzheimer’s is the most common form) is not always so easy. An individual can cover for ongoing memory losses for quite some time and the symptoms may go unnoticed. For many, concerns about memory loss and other noticeable changes in habits or moods trigger the all-important question: Is it Alzheimer’s?

Don’t jump to conclusions. Instead, refer to this checklist from the Alzheimer’s Association:

  1. Memory changes that disrupt daily life.
  2. Challenges in planning or solving problems.
  3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure.
  4. Confusion with time or place.
  5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships.
  6. New problems with words in speaking or writing.
  7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.
  8. Decreased or poor judgment.
  9. Withdrawal from work or social activities.
  10. Changes in mood and personality.

If you notice any of the signs above, it's best to schedule an appointment as soon as possible with the family physician and share your concern. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are many treatments available that may slow down the onset or help with symptoms.

For more information, please contact your local Alzheimer's Association chapter.