Alzheimer’s disease causes memory loss, behavioral challenges, poor communication, and other health issues. Although some of the symptoms may vary among seniors, there are common signs to watch out for. Knowing the early symptoms of the disease can help you get treatment for your aging loved one immediately. Here are some of the top warning signs a senior might have Alzheimer’s disease.
1. Misplacing Items
Losing the car keys or forgetting where the remote control is could be minor problems, but constantly misplacing items is one of the top signs of Alzheimer’s. Seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer’s often experience short-term memory loss. If your loved one is unable to retrace his or her steps, it may be time to see the doctor for an examination.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Fort Lauderdale families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Getting Words Confused
Calling people by the wrong names or using incorrect terms could be a sign of Alzheimer’s. Your loved one may take long pauses before speaking and/or use incorrect words. This is because Alzheimer’s can cause difficulties with finding words as the disease progresses.
3. Experiencing Vision Impairment
Alzheimer’s is a disease of the brain, which is why many seniors develop age-related eye conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts. If your loved one has difficulty detecting motion and has reduced peripheral vision, he or she may be developing Alzheimer’s. Get your parent to the doctor immediately because disturbances in vision and perception could cause safety risks and serious behavioral challenges.
Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional home care seniors can trust and rely on.
4. Withdrawing from Social Activities
Social withdrawal is common in older adults, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Seniors may shy away from social events because they can’t keep up with conversations, or they might forget about the social engagements altogether. If your loved one starts to isolate from family and friends, this could be an early warning sign of Alzheimer’s.
5. Being Constantly Suspicious
Mood changes are typical for people of all ages, but doubt and suspicion should never be ignored. If the suspicion and accusations continue, your parent may have Alzheimer’s. Your loved one may be misplacing things and, due to the neurological effects of the disease, accusing others of stealing them.
6. Facing Difficulty with Daily Tasks
With Alzheimer’s disease, even familiar things can become difficult to remember. Your loved one may have difficulty taking medications, driving to the doctor, going to the grocery store, and completing ordinary tasks. If your loved one forgets basic necessities and daily activities, he or she may be experiencing the memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s.
7. Wandering
If your loved one gets lost when going for walks or drives through the community or wanders away without letting anyone know he or she is leaving the home, these are likely signs of Alzheimer’s. Memory issues, disorientation, and confusion are symptoms that could cause wandering behaviors. Wandering is a very dangerous symptom associated with Alzheimer’s, and without proper treatment and prevention methods, it could lead to serious health risks.
The days, weeks, and months following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be challenging for both seniors and their families. However, these challenges can be made less stressful with the help of caregivers trained in professional Alzheimer’s care. Fort Lauderdale Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one enjoy the golden years while simultaneously managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. For reliable in-home care services, contact us today.
