Around one in nine Americans, over 65 years old has Alzheimer’s disease, and most people with this condition are over 75 years old. Given that the risk of developing Alzheimer’s is highest among older adults, it’s no surprise that many are worried about their cognitive health.
Although various age-related changes can affect the brain’s functioning, some signs can be cause for concern. Awareness of these symptoms can help people manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The proper diagnosis and treatment can help individuals and their caretakers make informed decisions regarding their future.
Early Signs
According to Shaun Patel, a Harvard-trained neuroscientist, Alzheimer’s disease can initially appear as a single symptom. However, it can also develop into a collection of different symptoms. He explained that the disease’s neuroinflammation could disrupt the functioning of the brain’s neural circuits.
Early cognitive functions such as memory and decision-making can be affected by neuroinflammation. However, the disease can also affect other aspects of the brain. For instance, he noted that the disease could affect the mood and decision-making abilities of people with the condition.
According to Ryan Glatt, a senior brain health coach, there are three early warning signs that people should be aware of when it comes to developing Alzheimer’s disease. These include memory problems, difficulty performing daily activities, and changes in their decision-making abilities.
- Constant Memory Challenges
One typical example of a cognitive change affecting the brain’s functioning is the inability to recall someone’s name. However, repetitive and significant memory problems can also be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, people with this condition might repeatedly forget important dates or events or ask the same questions.
- Difficulty Doing Daily Tasks
While performing specific daily tasks, such as bathing and managing one’s finances, people with Alzheimer’s disease might make mistakes potentially related to their condition. For instance, they might experience difficulty driving to a particular location or figuring out how to reach the destination.
- Having Trouble Making Decisions
An error in executive function, a set of cognitive processes that oversee actions and behaviors, can be a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Although it’s normal for people to make mistakes, individuals with this condition may experience a significant change in their decision-making abilities. For instance, they may become more likely to pay less attention to their hygiene or manage their finances.
When To Get Help
A survey by the Alzheimer’s Association revealed that almost all primary care physicians agree that patients with cognitive decline must be tested. Although it’s essential for people with little-to-no cognitive concerns to maintain a baseline of their brain health, it’s also important to monitor their health in the future. This can help prevent further cognitive decline and improve the quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s.
If a loved one has concerns about their cognitive health, they must get in touch with their doctor. This can help them identify potential symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and improve their quality of life.