10 Warning Signs that Could Indicate Alzheimer’s

It may start out as subtle little nuances that are barely noticeable – Mom begins experiencing slight memory lapses and forgetfulness, occasionally misplacing the keys or phone – but perhaps there’s enough of a change in her behavior to make you wonder: could it be Alzheimer’s? Here are ten red flags to be on the lookout for:

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life – forgetting recently learned information or important dates
2. Trouble in planning or solving problems – difficulty following familiar instructions, recipes, how to pay monthly bills, etc.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks – trouble driving to or navigating to familiar places
4. Time and place confusion – losing track of days or seasons
5. Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships – difficulty judging distance or determining colors
6. New problems with speaking or writing – repetitive speech, trouble following conversations
7. Misplacing things, inability to retrace steps – putting things in unusual places, may accuse others of stealing
8. Decreased or poor judgment – problems dealing with money, paying less attention to grooming
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities – shying away from social functions or tasks
10. Changes in mood or personality – easily upset, confused, suspicious, fearful, etc.

If you’re concerned that your loved one may potentially be entering the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia, the first step should always be to schedule an appointment with his or her primary care physician.

If an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is given, your first reaction may be one of fear or deep concern about what the future holds and how you’ll be able to manage care. Rest assured that you’ll never have to face the journey alone. Hired Hands Homecare’s dementia specialists have been helping families just like yours since 1994, and provides trusted, compassionate, and highly skilled home care throughout Marin, Sonoma, Napa Counties and the Tri-Valley area. Call us any time at 866-940-4343 to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

Alzheimer's Care dementia