Sep
05
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological condition that profoundly impacts cognitive functions such as memory, reasoning, and language. In the United States, over 6 million individuals aged 65 and above are affected by this disease. It’s important to distinguish between Alzheimer’s disease and the term “dementia.” While dementia is a broad term encompassing cognitive decline, including memory, thinking, and reasoning issues, Alzheimer’s specifically refers to a distinct disease. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, individuals may encounter difficulties with memory, word retrieval, and occasional lapses in judgment. The disease typically progresses from mild (early-stage) to moderate and eventually severe (late-stage) Alzheimer’s. Symptoms The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease primarily involve disruptions in cognitive functions. When diagnosing Alzheimer’s, healthcare professionals consider the following major categories of symptoms:4 In addition to these major symptom categories, individuals with Alzheimer’s may also experience the following: Early Warning Signs As you age, it’s normal to experience some memory changes. However, if you or those around you notice the following issues occurring more frequently, it’s important to consider speaking to a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation:6 Mild (Early-Stage) Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms During the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, individuals often receive a diagnosis as symptoms become noticeable. In this mild stage, cognitive, behavioral, and personality changes begin to affect daily life on a frequent basis Cognition: Other cognitive issues may include difficulties with: Behavior: Individuals with mild Alzheimer’s may display the following behaviors: Personality: In the early stage of Alzheimer’s, individuals may experience new or intensified manifestations of: Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms In moderate Alzheimer’s disease, the areas of the brain responsible for language, reasoning, thought processes, and sensory perception are further affected. Individuals at this stage require increased assistance and supervision. As the symptoms that were present in the early stage progress, new concerns arise. Cognitive, behavioral, and psychological changes become more pronounced, including difficulties in: Additionally, individuals may experience physical symptoms, including: Severe (Late-Stage) Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms In the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, significant changes occur in the brain, resulting in physical shrinkage of brain tissue. Individuals with severe Alzheimer’s are typically unable to communicate effectively and require full assistance with their daily care. They experience a wide range of physical concerns and rely entirely on their caregivers. They are often bedridden or spend most of their time in bed. At this stage, individuals with late-stage Alzheimer’s may struggle or be unable to perform the following tasks: In addition to the cognitive and functional challenges, individuals in the late stage of Alzheimer’s may also experience various physical issues, including: When to See a Healthcare Provider If you are experiencing memory or cognitive issues that are interfering with your daily life, it is important to seek guidance from a healthcare provider. Additionally, if people around you have noticed changes in your mood, personality, or ability to complete tasks, it is worth considering a conversation with a healthcare professional. To begin, you can schedule an appointment with a primary care doctor who can assess your condition and provide initial guidance. Depending on their evaluation, they may refer you to a neurologist, who specializes in brain and spinal cord conditions, or a geriatrician, who specializes in aging and care for older adults. A neuropsychologist can conduct memory and cognitive assessments, while a geriatric psychiatrist can evaluate any emotional difficulties you may be experiencing. Seeking medical attention as soon as you or others observe changes in your cognitive abilities can lead to earlier and more effective Alzheimer’s treatment. It is also possible that the symptoms may be caused by another treatable or curable condition, such as vitamin D deficiency or medication side effects. Remember, consulting with a healthcare provider will help provide a proper evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate care for your specific situation. Rapid recap While occasional memory or cognitive issues are common with aging, Alzheimer’s disease leads to dementia and significant cognitive loss that interferes with daily life. Initially, Alzheimer’s affects cognition, personality, and behavior, eventually progressing to difficulties with basic tasks and a loss of communication and self-care abilities. If you or those around you notice changes in thinking, personality, or mood, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare provider. This can include a primary care doctor, neurologist, or geriatrician, who can help rule out other potential causes and initiate early Alzheimer’s treatment and planning as necessary. Taking action and seeking professional guidance can lead to appropriate support and care.