TEN WARNING SIGNS

 

The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s disease are usually noted by family members, co-workers or friends who have continuous contact with the person. They may note that the person they once knew is no longer the same, but they don’t want to interfere or, sometimes, believe it is due to the aging process.
 

The following warning signs are not part of normal aging:

• Short term memory loss – not remembering if he/she had breakfast.
• Misplacing things – place the ice cream on the stove or the watch in the refrigerator.
• Difficulty doing family tasks – don’t know how to turn on the microwave.
• Difficulty finding name for everyday objects – for example: knife, fork, refrigerator.
• Disorientation to time and place – getting lost in familiar place or not knowing what month it is.
• Poor judgment – opening the door to strangers.
• Problems with abstract thinking – forgetting to pay bills, not able to balance the check book.
• Change in behavior and mood – depression, anxiety, rage for no apparent reason,
• Change in personality – withdrawn, lost interest in church, movies or other activities once enjoyed.
• No initiative – he/she has to be prompted to bath, to eat, etc.

 

If you note these 10 Warning Signs in yourself, a loved one or in a friend, please seek professional advice. Talk to your Primary Care Physician about your concerns. Don’t delay! Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease at the present time, there are treatments that slow down the progress and provide a better quality of life for the patient and his or her family. Please contact Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support and remember YOU ARE NOT ALONE!