Forgetting someone’s name once in a while or losing our keys from time to time happens to the best of us. Not remembering the little things is a normal part of aging. What isn’t normal is when forgetting becomes an everyday occurrence or when losing things turns into unintentional neglect. This is when it’s time to consider that these could be Alzheimer’s disease symptoms.
Talk to your health care provider about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease if your loved one shows repeated instances of the following signs of memory loss.
15 Signs of Memory Loss
- Forgetting important events they used to remember like doctors’ appointments and anniversaries.
- Asking for the same information again and again because they don’t remember.
- Having difficulty doing chores like cooking or cleaning out the refrigerator.
- Showing difficulty working with numbers like balancing monthly finances and accounts.
- Taking longer to perform favorite hobbies or not performing them at all.
- Mixing up dates, times, and seasons or forgetting them altogether.
- Confusing locations or not remembering how they got somewhere.
- Misjudging distances, colors, and contrasts.
- Struggling with words and sentences when talking.
- Mixing up words or misnaming things.
- Storing things like wallets, keys, and TV remotes in unusual places.
- Neglecting personal grooming habits or physical appearance.
- Making poor decisions that affect well-being and personal finances.
- Withdrawing from social gatherings like parties and picnics.
- Becoming upset, confused, anxious, or scared when away from familiar places like home.
These are just some Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. More severe signs include wandering from home, physical outbursts, and unwarranted suspicion. These severe signs may indicate the progression of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Next Steps
Talk to your loved one’s physician about memory loss and how it relates to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, but keep in mind it might not be what it seems. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “Having trouble with memory does not mean you have Alzheimer’s. Many health issues can cause problems with memory and thinking. When dementia-like symptoms are caused by treatable conditions — such as depression, drug interactions, thyroid problems, excess use of alcohol or certain vitamin deficiencies — they may be reversed.”
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but research is ongoing. One breakthrough comes from a study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation in 2013 noting how the effects of Alzheimer’s could be reversed.
For the latest in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease related news, visit Alzheimer’s Association and Arizona’s Desert Southwest Chapter. You can find a complete listing of dementia and Alzheimer’s care resources, learn about diagnosis, and find programs in the Valley to support dementia and Alzheimer’s patients and families.
