On-line Resources Alzheimer's Facts Internet Resources Ten Warning Signs Autopsy Program--Download Forms Homepage |
Is it Alzheimer's? Warning Signs You Should KnowTo help you know what warning signs to look for, the Alzheimer's Association has developed a checklist of common symptoms (some of them may apply to other dementing illnesses). Review the following list and check the symptoms that concern you. If you make several check marks, the individual with the symptoms should see a physician for a complete examination. It is important to note that there are more than 60 other disorders that have symptoms similar to Alzheimer's disease. One must not assume that someone has Alzheimer's disease just from these signs. |
|
Recent Memory Loss that Affects Job Skills
It is normal to occasionally forget assignments, colleagues' names, or a business associates telephone number and remember them later. Those with a dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease, may forget things more often and not remember them later. Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks Busy people can be so distracted from time to time that they may leave the carrots on the stove and only remember to serve them at the end of the meal. People with Alzheimer's disease could prepare a meal and not only forget to serve it, but also forget they made it. Problems with Language Everyone has trouble finding the right word sometimes, but a person with Alzheimer's disease may forget simple words or substitute inappropriate words, making his or her sentence incomprehensible. Disorientation of Time and Place It is normal to forget the day of the week or you destination for a moment. But people with Alzheimer's disease can become lost on their own street, not knowing where they are, how they got there or how to get back home. Poor or Decreased Judgement People can become so immersed in an activity that they temporarily forget the child they are watching. People with Alzheimer's disease could entirely forget the child under their care. They may also dress inappropriately , wearing several shirts or blouses. Problems with Abstract Thinking Balancing a checkbook may be disconcerting when the task is more complicated than usual. Someone with Alzheimer's disease could forget completely what the numbers are and what needs to be done with them. Misplacing Things Anyone can temporarily misplace a wallet or keys. A person with Alzheimer's disease may put things in inappropriate places: an iron in the freezer, or a wristwatch in the sugar bowl. Changes in Mood or Behavior Everyone becomes sad or moody from time to time. Someone with Alzheimer's disease can exhibit rapid mood swings from calm tears to anger for no apparent reason. Changes in Personality People's personalities ordinarily change somewhat with age. But a person with Alzheimer's disease can change drastically, becoming extremely confused , suspicious or fearful. Loss of Initiative It is normal to tire of housework, business activities, or social obligations, but most people regain their initiative. The person with Alzheimer's disease may become very passive and require cues and prompting to become involved. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you love, please call the Alzheimer's Association at (216) 721-8457 in Cleveland or 1-800-272-3900 to reach the National Alzheimer's Association and they will put you in contact with your local chapter. The Ten Warning Signs are brought to you by the Alzheimer's Association: 919 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60611-1676. |
University Hospitals of Cleveland