Detecting Alzheimer’s

by | Mar 10, 2023 | Senior Home Care

Detecting Alzheimer’s

Memory loss is a very normal part of the aging process, but there are signs that everyday problems may be something more than just “forgetfulness.” According to The Alzheimer’s Association, there are 10 signs to look for when detecting Alzheimer’s.

While Dementia is an umbrella term that signifies significant decline in a person’s ability to recollect information that also affects other cognitive abilities, Alzheimer’s is the most common disease diagnosed, and recognizing the symptoms can mean all the difference in early detection.

  1. The first symptom is memory loss that interrupts daily life, like forgetting important dates and appointments, and askingDetecting alzheimer's the same questions frequently.
  2. Problem solving and planning also becomes difficult with Alzheimer’s, such as following a recipe or being able to correctly read an analog clock.
  3. Performing familiar tasks may also present a challenge, such as driving to the grocery store that they have been visiting for years, or dialing phone numbers they have memorized.
  4. Being unable to recognize their surroundings, or what time it is, or who the president currently is, is a tell-tale sign of severe cognitive decline.
  5. Some people with Alzheimer’s suffer from challenges in spatial relationships, where driving may also become very dangerous as judging distances become more difficult.
  6. Recalling words may become difficult. A person with memory impairment may stop in the middle of speaking, and get confused about what they are talking about, or may spend a long time trying to remember a specific word.
  7. Losing items frequently, and not being able to remember the last place they were can become an issue. Items may also end up being found in odd places, such as car keys in the freezer.
  8. Someone with memory impairment may forget that it’s been more than a week since they last showered, or brushed their teeth, so grooming and personal hygiene may fall by the wayside.
  9. Someone with memory issues may feel embarrassed by being unable to hold a conversation, and will begin todetecting dementia withdraw from social activities they once enjoyed doing.
  10. Changes in behavior will also be a more noticeable sign of cognitive decline and memory impairment. Some people may become confused, agitated and upset when out of their comfort zone.

If you feel that you may be experiencing one or more of these issues, or a loved one is displaying signs of decline, please speak to your primary care physician as soon as possible, or call:

The Alzheimer’s Association Hotline
24/7 Helpline
800.272.3900

Are you or a loved one looking for in-home elderly and senior services? My Choice Home Care is a senior care service that serves clients in Macon, Jackson, and Haywood Counties in North Carolina. Counties served in Georgia are Rabun, Towns, and Habersham County. The counties served in Upstate South Carolina are Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson County. Call (828) 200-9000 to speak to someone today or contact us if you or a loved one would like to enjoy the benefits of living independently in your own home.