Early Signs of Alzheimers - Libby Deege

Recently my best friend was telling me about her mother in laws recent visit to the state. She was baffled by some changes she felt were taking place. She was telling me about how she would forget a recent conversation or ask the same question over and over again. She thought maybe it was the beginnings of "old age" but as I listened to more and more of the story, I asked her if anyone had taken her to see a doctor? Although I am still new to the Senior Care business I feel like I gain insight every day in talking with the loved ones of our clients with mild to extreme Alzheimer’s.

Last week my friend called to let me know her Mother in-law had left for church, less than a mile from her home. Time passed and her husband got worried. She drove from Oregon to California and couldn't remember how she got there. She was very upset and emotional when she discovered what she had done. My friend's husband is still not accepting that something maybe changing with his mother. He thinks it's just her getting older and not something serious. It is hard to look at your love one as anything but the strong confidant person who raised you!

Here is a list of early signs to look out for if you feel that someone close to you is being a little more than just "forgetful"

NORMAL AGING

Forgetting the names of people you rarely see

Briefly forgetting part of an experience

Not putting things away properly

Mood changes because of an appropriate cause

Changes in your interests

MILD ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

Have memory loss and poor memory of recent events

Have trouble naming common items

Ask the same thing over and over again

Get lost easily

Lose interest in thing they once liked to do

Lose things more often than normal

Have personality changes

Be worried or depressed

Alzheimer's symptoms may not appear the same way in every person. The main thing you should watch for is a change from normal behavior in your loved one. If you're seeing any unusual lapses in cognition, which may include memory, or if your loved one experiences uncharacteristic mood swings, make a special appointment to see the doctor.

Here are some tips to help you talk to family members: 

• Tell them calmly that you are seeing changes that you think warrant a doctor visit. Ask if they would like to join you.
• Keep a log of symptoms to share. Perhaps those who do not live near your loved one haven't seen evidence of changes. Or, conversely, those who live nearest may not notice symptoms as much since symptoms progress very gradually.
• Explain that medication may help your loved one remain functional for longer than without medication.  Starting Alzheimer's treatment earlier means you may start slowing symptoms sooner.
• Being afraid of the diagnosis is normal. But keep in mind that receiving a diagnosis of dementia, including Alzheimer's related dementia, may be a relief. In one study, a diagnosis of dementia significantly decreased patient anxiety. Getting a diagnosis can be empowering, and might help you make informed decisions to help your loved one.

As we get together for the upcoming Holidays, we are often reunited with family members we don't see as much as we would like over the year. If you notice any changes with them perhaps these early warning signs will help you and your family discover the best course of action to help you loved one through this change!