Alzheimer's: Key Findings in Early Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
The early stages of Alzheimer's disease mark a distinct time in your loved one's life and can pose significant changes for the entire family. It may be a confusing time for all involved, as the change in your loved one's lifestyle may only be slight at first, and therefore challenging to identify as the onset of the disease. However, there are notable signs to take into consideration, which can prove helpful in detecting dementia early and ensuring the best possible care for your loved one.
Benefits of early Alzheimer’s detection
The Alzheimer Society of Canada stresses the importance of early detection for Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Early detection in many cases leads to a more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment. It's important to recognize the early indicators of memory loss in your loved one so you can get them the support and care they need to enjoy the best quality of life possible. A senior in the early stages of dementia is also better equipped to make decisions about their treatment and memory care options.
What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s?
Here are four possible signs of Alzheimer's disease in seniors. It's important to note that while these signs may point to Alzheimer's, the only way to be certain of a diagnosis is to talk to your doctor.
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1. Disruptive memory loss
Seniors with Alzheimer’s may forget important events, appointments, or common tasks. They may also have problems performing familiar activities like making a grocery list or cooking, and frequently misplace objects. If you find that an older loved one experiences the kind of forgetfulness that makes day-to-day living difficult or that persists for long periods of time, it may be a sign of Alzheimer’s.
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2. Confusion over place and time
It's common for seniors to lose track of the date or forget why they came into a certain room, but sometimes that inconvenience can develop into confusion over when significant events happened or a chronic inability to remember what time, day or year it is. People with dementia may find themselves in an unfamiliar space with no knowledge of how they got there or where they are. If this has happened to your loved one more than once, they may be exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s.
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3. Problems with communication
The Alzheimer's Association notes that people with the disease may have trouble communicating. Rather than occasionally forgetting words or getting lost in a conversation, people with dementia can become completely unaware of what a conversation is about or lose significant portions of their vocabulary. They may even turn to gestures instead of speaking.
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4. Altered behavior and mood
If you suspect a loved one has dementia, you may have noticed significant changes in how they interact with the world around them. Depression, irritability, and suspicion are common symptoms of dementia, especially when dealing with new people or places. Someone you know to be happy and cheerful may become puzzled and depressed. They may give up their favourite hobbies, withdraw from their friends and family, or avoid obligations like shopping or visiting the doctor.
Dealing with Alzheimer’s
Seniors that exhibit one or more of these warning signs are highly encouraged to speak to their doctor or a memory care specialist. If your loved one has Alzheimer's disease or a different form of dementia, it may be time to consider memory care to ensure they are receiving the support they need.
Many Chartwell retirement residences offer memory care or memory living programs and services for seniors managing dementia or Alzheimer’s. These programs offer a community-based model of care that is highly beneficial to seniors and their families. If you are interested in learning more about our memory care and memory living services, download our Memory Living at Chartwell Guide for an in-depth exploration.
If you’re considering Chartwell for your loved one, visit Find a Residence to locate a retirement residence near you. Once you’re ready, book a personalized tour to learn more about our memory living program or give our Contact Centre a call at 1-855-461-0685.
*The following sources provide references for this blog, in order of appearance:
- 1. Alzheimer Society. "Benefits of an early diagnosis" Online: https://alzheimer.ca/sites/default/files/files/national/core-lit-brochures/benefits_of_early_diagnosis_e.pdf
- 2. Alzheimer's Association. "10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's" Online: http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_10_signs_of_alzheimers.asp
- 3. National Institute on Aging. "Symptoms and Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease", Online: http://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/topics/diagnosis