Millions of dollars are invested in Alzheimer’s research every year, and doctors have been able to identify some of the leading signs and symptoms of this pervasive disease. When these signs are recognized early, seniors can sometimes delay the worst symptoms of Alzheimer’s with an aggressive treatment plan. Here’s a quick look at seven signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s that should never be ignored.
1. Persistent Forgetfulness
Minor memory problems are a natural part of the aging process, and these issues aren’t always tied to Alzheimer’s. That being said, you should be concerned if your senior loved one seems to have ongoing problems with memory. If your loved one is constantly repeating him or herself or forgetting important information, you might want to schedule an appointment with a neurologist.
2. Difficulty Performing Daily Tasks
As this disease progresses, everyday tasks often become extremely difficult. Getting ready for the day could take your loved one several hours because he or she is misplacing possessions or forgetting how to use an item such as a toothbrush. These are all signs your loved one could have issues with working memory that need to be addressed.
If your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, help is just a phone call away. For reliable Alzheimer’s care, Waterloo families can turn to Home Care Assistance. We are a leading provider of professional memory care designed to help seniors maintain a higher quality of life. In addition to Alzheimer’s care, we also provide comprehensive dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care. From revolutionary care programs to compassionate and dedicated caregivers, we can meet all of your Alzheimer’s care needs.
3. Poor Judgment
One of the most unusual symptoms of Alzheimer’s is a sudden change in judgment. A senior who used to be gentle and even-tempered might become impulsive or aggressive as the disease attacks various areas of the brain. Some seniors with Alzheimer’s also engage in harmful activities, such as compulsive gambling or being physically aggressive with people they come into contact with.
4. Difficulty with Spatial Relationships
Many people are surprised to learn that Alzheimer’s can damage the area of the brain responsible for interpreting visual images, which is one of the reasons some seniors with Alzheimer’s have a difficult time getting around without mobility devices such as walkers and canes. If your loved one is experiencing eyesight issues, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor.
5. Problems with Speaking
Another common Alzheimer’s symptom is difficulty holding conversations. When a conversation becomes too complex, your loved one might shut down entirely or seem completely disinterested in the topic. To address this issue, make sure important conversations take place in calm, quiet environments that don’t distract or confuse your loved one.
Families looking for top-rated Waterloo home care service providers can reach out to Home Care Assistance. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
6. Withdrawal from Social Activities
If your loved one is withdrawing from activities he or she used to love, you need to have him or her screened for Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders. Many of these types of disorders make social activities overwhelming, and seniors with Alzheimer’s might avoid social situations because they’re self-conscious. To keep your loved one socially active, you might want to invite only one or two people over at a time so your parent isn’t overstimulated.
7. Confusion About the Date or Time
It’s perfectly normal for an individual to occasionally forget the day of the week, but mistakes like this should be relatively rare. When seniors constantly forget the month or year, they could have underlying cognitive issues that need to be addressed. Problems with time perception are very common among seniors with Alzheimer’s.
A trained professional caregiver can be a fantastic resource when it comes to managing age-related conditions in seniors. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading elderly home care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today at (519) 954-2111.