Alzheimer's Association Education and Outreach Specialist
Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters
As 10 million baby boomers develop Alzheimer's, early detection of the disease becomes critical to future planning. Knowing the warning signs of Alzheimer's and getting diagnosed early is vital to receiving the best help and care possible.
This list can help you recognize the warning signs:
- Memory changes that disrupt daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgement
- Withdrawl from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
Interested in learning more about Alzheimer's? Check out the Alzheimer's Association Cleveland Area Chapter website to find education programs, support services and more.
Lori E. Switaj
10:59 am on Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Hi Steffani, thanks for the blog. My mother has advanced Alzheimer's and it is a terrible disease. I would love to see a future blog on updated resources/suggestions for caregivers. It's a huge burden to carry.
T. Allen, M.D.
11:11 pm on Wednesday, April 4, 2012
The only high accuracy diagnosis is post-mortem when brain material is available and can be examined histologically. Otherwise, it's just a best guess based on cognative function and psychiatric evaluation that coukd be just one of any number of dementias.
Steffani Baker
9:25 am on Thursday, April 5, 2012
Lori,
You are welcome, thanks for your interest. I will be happy to include information for caregivers in the future. It is surely a huge burden to carry. I also encourage you to call our helpline at 1.800.272.3900, they can give you a very detailed explanation of free services the Alzheimer's Association offers that might benefit you. There are over 30 support groups in the area and every month there is a full day dementia care training that is free for family caregivers. I have noticed it really empowers the individuals who attend and they love the connection with others. Best of luck to you.