Understanding the Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease: Differentiating Between Normal Aging and a Cause for Concern

Witnessing changes in cognitive function, especially those occurring in the early stages, can be a source of anxiety and uncertainty. It is a common experience for older individuals to grapple with minor forgetfulness or occasional confusion, often dismissed as ordinary age-related changes. However, it's essential to recognize that while some cognitive lapses are a natural part of aging, dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, is not.

Let us explore the delicate distinction between the signs of normal aging and the early symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It's important to note that these examples are not intended as diagnostic criteria but rather as guidance to help individuals and caregivers distinguish between common age-related forgetfulness and concerning symptoms that require further attention.

Contact St. Andrew’s if you have any questions.

1. Misplacing everyday items: Occasional misplacement of items such as the TV remote or car keys is typical. However, individuals usually find them after retracing their steps.
2. Occasional forgetfulness: It's common to have some difficulty in finding the right words or to occasionally forget something that someone just mentioned and ask them to repeat themselves once. This is usually due to momentary lapses in attention.
3. Slight issues with name recall: Forgetting someone's name but later recalling it or mistakenly calling a grandchild by their sibling's name is often attributed to harmless memory lapses.
4. Missing appointments here and there: Having small issues keeping track of dates and missing a doctor's appointment scheduled a month ago can happen to anyone, especially those with a busy schedule full of daily tasks and social obligations.
5. Confusion with complex tasks: Becoming temporarily confused when managing complex tasks like finances or organizing a trip is common. It may lead to temporary frustration but doesn't necessarily signal a significant issue.

1. Consistently losing items: Frequent occurrences of losing everyday items and finding them in unusual places, such as the freezer or bathroom cabinet, can be a sign of early Alzheimer's disease.
2. Repetitive questions: Constantly asking for the same information repeatedly, even shortly after it was provided, may indicate memory problems that are cause for concern.
3. Inability to recall names: Complete inability to recall the names of close family members and friends is not typical and could signify the onset of early-onset Alzheimer's.
4. Recent event memory loss: Forgetting recent events, like the visitors someone had yesterday, might be an early symptom of Alzheimer's disease.
5. Routine disorientation: Difficulty completing simple daily activities, like forgetting the route to the local grocery store or the day of the week, can be considered a warning sign of dementia.
6. Personality changes: Developing mood swings, irritability, or easily becoming upset unexpectedly can accompany the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.
7. Wandering: Getting lost easily, even in familiar places from your daily life, can get worse as the disease progresses.

Understanding these distinctions can be crucial for both individuals and their caregivers. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive form of dementia characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain cells, leading to cognitive decline. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for managing the disease effectively before it reaches the late stage.

For those concerned about themselves or loved ones, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist. They can provide a thorough assessment, including cognitive tests and medical history reviews, to determine the presence of Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia.

In recent years, there have been advancements in treatment options for Alzheimer's disease, such as the FDA approval of Aducanumab.

However, early detection remains crucial as treatment is more effective in the early stages of the disease.

While some memory lapses are a normal part of aging, persistent and significant cognitive changes should not be dismissed. Caregivers, family members, and individuals themselves should be vigilant in recognizing the early signs of Alzheimer's disease to seek timely medical intervention and support. Additionally, maintaining social activities, engaging in cognitive exercises, and addressing potential risk factors can contribute to cognitive well-being in older adults, reducing the overall dementia risk.

St. Andrew's transitional and secure memory care helps older adults experiencing Alzheimer's disease, forms of dementia, and other types of memory loss and mild cognitive impairment feel fulfilled. Families can rest assured knowing our knowledgeable caregivers help residents feel at ease, understood, and valued throughout the day and night.

Contact us to learn more or schedule a tour.