10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

While acknowledging alarming changes in yourself or your loved one can be frightening, seeking medical help for the symptoms of dementia is very important. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s, you should schedule a visit to your doctor as soon as possible. It is important to note that many of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s type dementia are also symptoms of other illnesses which can be treated or reversed.

1. Memory loss that affects job performance:
   • Frequent forgetfulness or unexplainable confusion at work or home.
   
   
   
2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks:
   • Everyday tasks such as cooking meals or using a washing machine becomes a challenge.
   
   
   
3. Problems with language:
   • Forgetting simple words or substituting inappropriate words
   
   
   
4. Disorientation as to time and place:
   • Frequently getting lost in familiar areas
   
   
   
5. Poor or decreased judgment:
   • Dressing inappropriately (i.e. winter jacket in the summer)
   
   
   
6. Problems with abstract thinking:
   • Difficulty doing basic math calculations, understanding numbers, etc.
   
   
   
7. Misplacing things in unusual places:
   • For example, putting a watch in the freezer
   
   
   
8. Changes in mood or behaviour:
   • Rapid mood swings (i.e. from calm to tearful) for no apparent reason
   
   
   
9. Changes in personality:
   • A person with Alzheimer’s can exhibit dramatic changes in personality including paranoia, anxiety, confusion and dependency.
   
   
   
10. Loss of initiative:
    • A prolonged lack of interest or involvement in regular activities. The person may become passive and withdrawn.

(source: Alzheimer’s Association)