2 of 6

Write now Article Tools

I have worked with individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias for ten years. I have followed patients from the moment of diagnosis to the final stages of this insidious disease. I have led a dementia training program and a support group for family members. I have seen the heartache, denial, anger, depression, acceptance, and strength surrounding those trapped in the sticky web of this disease. With all that said, I will be the first to tell you that a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease does not have to be the end of life, as you know it.

Early diagnosis and treatment plays a key role in helping to ward off the progression of the disease. There are new medications available for slowing the disease and research continues to give us hope for the future. It is important to identify and recognize the symptoms associated with the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Please take note that it is not unusual to have several of these symptoms on any given day and not have Alzheimer's disease. Stress, lack of sleep, infection, breathing difficulty, depression, alcohol, medication, or an underlying medical condition can contribute to cognitive impairment. It is always best to be evaluated by a doctor who specializes in geriatric care. Here is a list of the earliest signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease:

Short-Term Memory Loss: Ex. You are talking to a friend on the phone and schedule a time to meet that afternoon. When your friend shows up at your home, you are surprised and can't recall having scheduled a time to meet.
Difficulty with Communication: Ex. You find yourself using the wrong words or cannot remember the names for familiar items.
Difficulty following Complex Commands: Ex. Someone asks you to pick up a piece of paper from the floor, fold it, and put it on the table next to you. You pick up the paper, fold it, and look to the person to cue you on what to do next.
Difficulty with Abstract Thinking: Ex. You are asked to write or say a sentence and your sentence is incomplete or incoherent. Simple mathematic equations may become impossible to decipher.
Disorientation to Place or Time: Ex. You are driving and have to pull over because you forgot where you were headed or where you are. You may be confused as to what day, month, or year it is.
Personality Change: Ex. If you were always outspoken and friendly, you may become withdrawn and quiet. You may have been quiet and reserved, but now are making loud and inappropriate comments to others.
Behavioral Changes: Ex. You begin stealing, are sexually inappropriate, act aggressively, stop interacting with friends and family, etc. These behaviors must be a new development in the individual.
Difficulty with Simple Tasks: Ex. You are having difficulty cooking, cleaning, paying bills, maintaining daily hygiene, etc.
Impaired Judgment: Ex. You give your checking account information to a stranger over the phone or in person.

By understanding the early sings and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, you are empowered to take control of this disease and your life. Denial is too often a roadblock, preventing you or the one you love from acknowledging mental deterioration and receiving early treatment of the disease. There is help available for you, if only you reach out to your doctor and the community. For more information on Alzheimer's disease, please go the Alzheimer's Association's web site at www.alz.org. You are not alone in this fight.

Learn more about this author, Jonna Hall.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to see if you might have an early on set of Alzheimer's disease?
We want to hear your view. Write now!