Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain cells responsible for memory and cognitive function. This progressive disease typically starts with mild memory loss and gradually worsens over time. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is crucial for effective treatment and management of symptoms.
- Memory loss: One of the earliest and most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease is memory loss. Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may forget important dates, appointments, and conversations, and may have trouble retaining new information.
- Difficulty with problem-solving and planning: Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may have difficulty with tasks that require problem-solving and planning. They may struggle with tasks that they were once able to complete with ease, such as balancing a checkbook or following a recipe.
- Difficulty with familiar tasks: People with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble with familiar tasks, such as driving to a familiar location, following a routine, or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
- Language problems: Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble finding the right words to express themselves or understanding what others are saying.
- Poor judgment: Alzheimer’s disease can affect a person’s ability to make sound decisions, especially when it comes to finances or personal hygiene.
- Social withdrawal: Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may become increasingly withdrawn from social situations, hobbies, and other activities that they once enjoyed.
- Mood swings: Alzheimer’s disease can cause changes in mood and personality, including depression, anxiety, and irritability.
- Misplacing objects: People with Alzheimer’s disease may misplace objects and have trouble retracing their steps to find them.
- Changes in vision: Alzheimer’s disease can affect a person’s vision, causing problems with depth perception, color perception, and contrast sensitivity.
- Changes in appetite and weight: Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease may experience changes in appetite and weight, which can lead to malnutrition and other health problems.
