Alzheimer’s disease can come with subtle changes that are easy to overlook or dismiss as a natural part of aging. However, identifying early symptoms is key to getting the proper support and care when it’s needed most.
Common early-stage signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s often include memory loss, mood changes, confusion with time, place, or spatial relationships, and difficulty with communication, like speaking or writing.
Understanding these signs can help you make informed decisions for yourself or your loved ones, helping everyone involved feel supported and empowered.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for approximately 60–70% of cases.
While there is no cure, early detection can make a significant difference in managing symptoms, improving quality of life, and creating a care plan that works for your family.
Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease affect everyone differently. The main early warning signs include memory loss, poor planning, confusion, processing issues, communication difficulties, social withdrawal, and behavior changes that disrupt daily life.
Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life
Occasional forgetfulness is normal, but consistent memory lapses can signal a deeper issue. Common examples include forgetting important dates or events, repeatedly asking for the same information, or relying heavily on notes and reminders to perform daily tasks.
Example
A once-organized spouse begins forgetting the names of close friends or abnormally misplaces essential items, like keys or a wallet.
Difficulty with Problem Solving & Planning
Tasks that were once routine may now feel overwhelming. This can include managing finances, following a recipe, or keeping up with monthly bills. People may struggle to concentrate or take much longer to complete tasks they used to do with ease.
Example
A family member, once known for their budgeting skills, struggles to balance a checkbook or make sense of simple instructions.
Confusion About Time or Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time may be an early indicator. People with Alzheimer’s may also forget where they are or how they got there, leaving them disoriented in familiar settings.
Example
A loved one insists it is Monday when it’s Saturday or forgets they’ve already had breakfast and prepares another meal.
Difficulty Understanding Visual or Spatial Relationships
Visual processing challenges can make certain activities, such as reading, judging distances, or distinguishing colors, difficult. For some, these issues may extend to navigating once-familiar environments.
Example
A parent who previously loved driving starts hesitating at road signs or has trouble parking.
Problems with Speaking or Writing
Difficulty following or joining a conversation can be one of the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Individuals may pause in the middle of a conversation, lose track of what they were saying, or struggle to find the right words.
Communication challenges can lead to frustration and withdrawal from social situations.
Example
A once-chatty friend begins avoiding conversations, regularly repeating the same sentences or calling objects by the wrong name.
Misplacing Items & Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
While we all lose items from time to time, someone with Alzheimer’s might place things in unusual spots and struggle to recall how they got there. Over time, this can lead to accusations of others stealing their belongings.
Example
Your loved one might place shoes in the refrigerator or keys in the laundry basket.
Withdrawal from Social or Work Activities
Losing interest in favorite hobbies, social events, or work projects can be an early warning sign. Their withdrawal might stem from difficulty keeping up or a lack of confidence brought on by memory challenges.
Example
A previously outgoing colleague begins skipping team meetings and avoids going out with friends, preferring to stay home.
Changes in Mood or Personality
Early-stage Alzheimer’s can cause mood swings, confusion, depression, and anxiety. A person may become suspicious, fearful, or easily upset in situations that previously didn’t bother them.
Example
A once calm and collected parent might suddenly become irritable or overly anxious, especially when their routines are disrupted.
Next Steps if You Notice Symptoms
Identifying early-stage Alzheimer’s symptoms can feel overwhelming, but there are proactive steps you can take to support your loved one and yourself.
- Schedule a Doctor’s Appointment
If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of these signs, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis can open doors to resources, treatments, and support.
- Educate Yourself
Learn as much as you can about Alzheimer’s. Understanding the disease can provide clarity and help you anticipate changes as they occur.
- Create a Care Plan
Begin discussing options for care. Thinking about living arrangements, transportation, and financial considerations before they become urgent issues can be helpful.
- Seek Emotional Support
Caring for someone during the early stages of Alzheimer’s can be emotionally taxing. Lean on family, friends, or support groups who can provide comfort and guidance during this time.
Personalized Support for Alzheimer’s Care
Recognizing Alzheimer’s symptoms early is the first step in creating a supportive and caring environment for the person you love. Personalized care at Barton House Senior Living can help seniors and their family caregivers navigate the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.
Our compassionate team is here to provide advice, care solutions, and a sense of belonging in a dedicated community. If you’d like to learn how we can assist you or your family, we welcome you to schedule a tour or consultation with us today.