As we age, it’s natural to experience occasional forgetfulness like misplacing keys or struggling to recall a name. But how do you know if it could be something more concerning?
“Alzheimer’s disease progresses slowly over several years,” says Brian K. Unwin, MD, chief of Geriatrics at Carilion Clinic. “The early symptoms can be subtle and are often mistaken for normal aging. But recognizing these signs early is key to getting the right care.”
The Alzheimer’s Association suggests watching for these 10 early warning signs:
1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Forgetting recently learned information, repeating questions or relying more on memory aids may indicate more than typical age-related forgetfulness.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s may struggle with making and following a plan or working with numbers. For example, someone might start having trouble following a recipe that they’ve used for years or keeping up with bill payments.
3.Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Daily activities like driving to a well-known place or completing work assignments can become more challenging in people with early Alzheimer’s.
4. Confusion with time or place
Losing track of dates, seasons or the passage of time and forgetting how you got somewhere is a possible red flag.
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
Some people might begin to have trouble reading, judging distances or distinguishing colors early in the disease. This can affect tasks like driving.
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
Struggling to follow or join a conversation, pausing mid-sentence, repeating oneself or using incorrect words (like calling a watch a "hand clock") are possible signs.
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
Things might start ending up in unusual places or lost more frequently. Oftentimes, people with Alzheimer’s might start accusing others of stealing their belongings.
8. Decreased or poor judgment
Early Alzheimer’s may lead to poor decision-making. This can look like giving away large sums of money or ignoring personal hygiene and grooming.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
People may avoid hobbies, social events or work duties they once enjoyed because they find them confusing or hard to follow.
10. Changes in mood and personality
Mood swings, increased anxiety, suspicion, depression or fear (especially in unfamiliar situations) can be early emotional signs of the disease.
“Not everyone with early Alzheimer’s will show all of these signs,” notes Dr. Unwin. “But even noticing a few can be enough to warrant a conversation with your doctor.”
Why Early Detection Matters
Getting an early diagnosis allows you to make the most of available treatments and plan for the future. This can include legal and financial decisions, care preferences and living arrangements.
“While current treatments can’t cure Alzheimer’s or stop its progression, they may slow symptoms and improve quality of life,” adds Dr. Unwin.
If you’re concerned about changes in yourself or a loved one, don’t wait. Talk to your family doctor today.
Carilion Clinic's Center for Healthy Aging offers a comprehensive and integrated approach to addressing the unique needs of older individuals. Services include psychological support, cognitive evaluation and Alzheimer's support for patients and their families. For more information, call 540-527-4800.
