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Alzheimer's symptoms
It is important to visit a doctor if you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms so you can receive the proper evaluation and diagnosis. Other conditions--including depression and head injuries--can also produce many of the following symptoms.
The changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease can begin long before symptoms appear. But the key warning signs include:
Impaired memory and thinking. The person has difficulty learning new information and remembering things, including personal information, such as his or her place of birth or occupation.
Difficulty performing familiar tasks. The person begins to have difficulty performing daily tasks, such as eating, dressing, and showering. A person with Alzheimer's disease might prepare a meal and forget to serve it or even forget that he or she prepared it.
Problems with language. The person can't recall words or understand the meaning of common words. A person with Alzheimer's disease may substitute inappropriate words, making it difficult to understand what he or she is saying.
Disorientation and confusion. People with Alzheimer's disease may get lost when out on their own and may not be able to remember where they are or how they got there. They also may not recognize formerly familiar places and situations.
Inability to follow directions. The person has difficulty understanding simple commands or directions. The person may get lost easily and begin to wander.
Poor or decreased judgment. The person has difficulty making decisions and cannot fully grasp consequences. People with Alzheimer's disease may leave the house on a cold day without a coat or shoes, or they may go to the store wearing pajamas.
Problems with abstract thinking. Many people find balancing a checkbook challenging. But someone with Alzheimer's disease may have difficulty recognizing numbers or understanding what to do with them.
Misplacing things. The person forgets where he or she put things used every day, such as glasses, a hearing aid, keys, etc. The person also may put things in strange places, such as leaving glasses in the refrigerator.
Changes in mood or behavior. People with Alzheimer's disease tend to have rapid mood swings.
Changes in personality. The person may experience a dramatic change in personality, becoming suspicious, fearful, angry, or quiet.
Loss of motivation or initiative. People with Alzheimer's disease may become passive and lose interest in their usual activities. They may require extra encouragement to become involved.
Social withdrawal. The person begins to spend more time alone and is less willing to interact with others.
Loss of appetite.
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