Alzheimer's Disease is an irreversible disorder of the brain which develops slowly and at a different pace with each person, eventually causing destructive changes which result in death. The risk of developing the disease increases with age. There are various types of dementia, or memory loss, with Alzheimer's Disease being just one type. Doctors can perform tests to appropriately identify the type of memory loss and begin treatments which may slow the progression of the disease. Seniors and their family members can learn about the warning signs for this unique type of memory loss to better manage both the emotional and physical impact of the disease.
Signs of Early-Stage Alzheimer's Disease
- Poor Concentration (short attention span)
- Short-term Memory Problems (such as forgetting a meal was just eaten)
- Depression
- Forgetting Things: people's names, dates, how to operate appliances or other equipment
- Difficulty Making Decisions
- Personality Changes (becoming frustrated, angry or very quiet)
- Getting Lost (even when in a familiar place)
- Speaking Difficulty (forgetting words, talking in circles or avoiding conversations)
- Shadowing (follwing people around)
- Behavior Problems (inappropriate actions such as cursing or acting silly)
- Shuffled Walking (stooped posture with shuffle steps)
- Repetitive Behavior (pacing or doing other activities repeatedly)
- Difficulty Following Directions
- Difficulty Sleeping
- Weight Loss
- Loss of Balance and Ability to Walk
- Loss of Short and Long-term Memory
- Loss of Speech (may groan or scream)
- Loss of Basic Skills (such as eating and drinking)
- Failure to Recognize Others
- Respiratory Infections
Remember that forgetfulness is not a natural part of aging. While Alzheimer's Disease does seem to be more prevalent in certain families, the cause is not known and there is no cure.
No comments:
Post a Comment