While most people tend to think of Alzheimer’s disease as one that causes confusion and forgetfulness, other signs of the disease are often much harder to notice. A change in normal behavior is one of those less obvious warning signs. For example, a previously easy-going person may suddenly be easily agitated and quick to anger. If you notice such changes, it may be something as simple as a vitamin deficiency or infection but could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s Disease. Additional early signs of Alzheimer’s Disease may include the following: Early sign #1: Loss of memory All of us forget things once in a while, but when that forgetfulness impacts a person’s everyday activities, it could be something much more. Document your loved one’s memory loss including what things they are forgetting and how often and share the information with their doctor. Early sign #2: Self-isolation Another red flag is when your loved one withdraws from social activities, hobbies, family gatherings, and religious services. This is often because they can no longer remember names and may feel safer at home. Early sign #3: Paranoia Some people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease may experience bouts of paranoia. For example, they may believe that someone close to them is stealing from them. Early sign #4: Change in hygiene If an adult has always been tidy in the way they look, a change in their hygiene may signify trouble. They may be afraid of falling so they stop showering as often, or they may have developed a fear of water. This is quite common in people with Alzheimer’s Disease. Early sign #5: Misplacing belongings If your loved one has suddenly started misplacing belongings or has started putting things in odd places, it could be a sign of memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s Disease. Early sign #6: Changes in personality A person in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease may start having mood swings, agitation, aggression, tearfulness or other personality changes. Of course, these could be caused by other things as well, but such changes should be addressed with a physician. If you or your loved one has experienced any of the above symptoms, you should consider discussing them with your family physicians and ensure there is no other cause for symptoms that could be fixed with treatment.
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