Alzheimer's Disease Symptoms
Getting a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can be a scary and overwhelming experience. With the help of the dedicated professionals at Anthem Memory Care, the journey can be rewarding and inspiring for residents and their families.
When a loved one exhibits signs of memory loss, it can be a challenging and emotional journey. However, while memory decline is a natural part of the aging process, symptoms of significant cognitive impairment might be a sign of Alzheimer's disease-related dementia.
What is Alzheimer's disease?
Alzheimer's disease is the most widespread cause of progressive dementia. The condition is characterized by the development of beta-amyloid plaques and tau fibrils, also known as tau tangles, in the brain, which disrupt normal brain function. Alzheimer's disease is also associated with genetic mutations in the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) gene, increasing the risk of the disease.
A cure does not yet exist for Alzheimer's disease, but there are treatments available that can temporarily improve symptoms and potentially slow the disease’s progress. These treatments may include medication, cognitive interventions, and supportive care.
What are the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease?
Symptoms of early-stage Alzheimer's disease can be subtle and often go unnoticed. Some of the most common early symptoms include mild forgetfulness, difficulty completing familiar tasks, trouble finding the right words, and poor judgment.
It is crucial to keep in mind that these early symptoms may not necessarily indicate Alzheimer's disease and can be caused by other factors as well.
Alzheimer's disease symptoms can be grouped into two categories: Cognitive changes and psychological changes.
Cognitive Changes
Cognitive changes associated with Alzheimer's-related dementia involve several vital areas:
- Memory loss: One of the defining characteristics of Alzheimer's-related dementia is forgetfulness. People experience difficulty remembering recent events, familiar people, or even their own names.
- Loss of spatial awareness: Alzheimer’s disease can affect a person's ability to perceive and understand their surroundings. They may get lost easily in familiar places, have difficulty navigating new environments, or have trouble judging distances.
- Language challenges: People with Alzheimer’s disease may experience difficulty understanding or expressing language. They may struggle to find the right words or comprehend conversations.
- Confusion: Alzheimer’s disease can cause individuals to experience confusion, disorientation, and a struggle to find their bearings. They may forget where they are or who they are with, leading to confusion and agitation.
- Struggles performing complex tasks: Alzheimer’s disease can affect a person's ability to perform complex tasks effectively. They may struggle with problem-solving, organizing thoughts, or following detailed instructions.
- Diminished judgment: Alzheimer’s disease can impair an individual's ability to make and recognize sound judgments. They may struggle with decision-making and understanding consequences or start engaging in risky or impulsive behavior.
Psychological Changes
In addition to the above cognitive changes, people living with Alzheimer’s disease may also experience the following psychological changes:
- Depression: Alzheimer’s disease can lead to feelings of despair, hopelessness, and a disinterest in activities. Many people with dementia experience symptoms of depression, which can further impact their well-being.
- Social withdrawal: As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, people may become increasingly isolated and withdrawn. They may lose interest in social interactions and have difficulty maintaining relationships.
- Aggression: Aggression and irritability are common behavioral changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. People struggling with the condition may become easily frustrated and agitated, exhibit sudden outbursts of anger, or even become violent.
- Hallucinations: In some cases, individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may experience hallucinations, seeing or hearing things that are not there. These hallucinations can be disturbing and can cause radical changes in behavior.
- Inappropriate behavior: Alzheimer’s disease can lead to changes in behavior that may be inappropriate or out of character. Such changes may include making disturbing comments, wandering, performing repetitive actions, exhibiting diminished impulse control, or engaging in unwanted sexual advances.
- Anxiety: Many people with Alzheimer’s disease experience anxiety, which can manifest in various ways. They may exhibit signs of restlessness, difficulty concentrating, or paranoia.
What is the difference between Alzheimer's disease and dementia?
Alzheimer's disease and dementia are often used synonymously, but they are not the same thing.
Dementia describes a deterioration of cognitive function, including memory loss, difficulty with communication, and impaired thinking skills.
While Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent cause of dementia, there are also other forms of dementia. These include the following disorders:
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
While dementia is a symptom of Alzheimer's disease, other forms of dementia have unique characteristics that aren’t necessarily seen in Alzheimer’s. Moreover, some common dementia symptoms are characteristic of a condition called pseudodementia.
Pseudodementia is caused by certain infections, thyroid disorders, impaired sleep, side effects of some medications, and other issues. Pseudodementia, unlike dementia, can be reversed when the underlying cause is addressed.
When is it time to seek care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease?
Deciding when it's time to seek residential care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease is a complex and emotional process.
Generally, residential care is recommended when a person's safety is at risk and requires help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and eating. Other factors to consider are the caregiver's physical and emotional well-being, the availability of family support, and the person's overall health and well-being.
At Anthem Memory Care, our Pathways of Purpose commitment empowers residents to embark on new, rewarding journeys surrounded by love and support. Creating a sense of community and belonging encourages residents to engage in enriching activities that fulfill their interests and passions.
If your loved one is experiencing signs of memory loss, we're here to help. Don't hesitate to contact our caring representatives today.
