November is Alzheimer's Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about a disease that affects about 6.7 million Americans. Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that impairs memory, thinking, and behavior.
And although it’s commonly associated with memory loss, early signs of Alzheimer’s can be subtle and unexpected. These surprising signs can make early detection challenging, but learning to recognize them can help you or a loved one seek timely evaluation and care.
Boston Neurobehavioral Associates offers neuropsychological testing for Alzheimer's and therapeutic care for cognitive diseases, including Alzheimer’s. Here are five early signs of Alzheimer's disease that may surprise you.
Everyone has those moments where they forget something simple, like misplacing keys or forgetting to pay a bill. However, if someone begins to struggle with familiar tasks that have been second nature for years, it could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s.
For instance, getting confused about how to use household appliances, follow recipes, or manage finances might signal cognitive decline. These seemingly minor struggles often go unnoticed by friends and family but may indicate changes in brain function.
Occasionally forgetting a word is normal, but frequently having trouble finding the right words or using unusual words to describe common objects may be an early symptom of Alzheimer’s — and people with early-stage Alzheimer's can have difficulty following or participating in conversations.
They may pause frequently, repeat themselves, or use phrases like "the thing you cook with" instead of "stove." If communication becomes noticeably more difficult, it’s important to consider seeking a professional evaluation.
Mood swings and changes in personality are early warning signs of Alzheimer’s that are easy to overlook because they don’t seem directly related to memory issues. A person in the early stages of Alzheimer's might become more withdrawn, anxious, or irritable, especially when out of their comfort zone.
Some people can also develop depression, which may further mask underlying cognitive decline. If someone starts avoiding social interactions, becomes suspicious of others, or reacts out of character, it could be a sign of something more than just stress or aging.
While everyone makes less-than-ideal decisions occasionally, frequent lapses in judgment — like giving large sums of money to telemarketers or neglecting personal hygiene — can be an early indicator of Alzheimer's. Declining judgment can lead to dangerous situations, especially when it affects day-to-day activities and safety.
Disorientation is a hallmark sign of Alzheimer’s, but it can start subtly and be easy to miss. Early on, a person may lose track of dates, seasons, or time. They might get confused about where they are or how they got there, even in familiar places. This disorientation can lead to getting lost in once-known surroundings or becoming confused during routine activities.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means that it continues to get worse over time. Recognizing the early signs is essential because early detection and diagnosis allow for better planning and access to treatments that can slow the progression of symptoms.
Our team offers neuropsychological testing to assess cognitive health and identify early signs of Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders. If you think you or a loved one may be developing Alzheimer’s, we can help you find answers. We also provide therapy and support to help people and their families manage Alzheimer’s and improve their quality of life.
During Alzheimer’s Awareness Month this November, take the time to learn about these early warning signs. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above, get professional help, because early intervention can make a big difference. Contact us to get started.
