The natural aging process causes several changes in the human body, which may include a slight decrease in cognitive function. However, a senior in the initial stages of Alzheimer’s disease often exhibits an array of symptoms. By recognizing the following early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, family members can assist their elderly loved ones in getting a proper diagnosis.
1. Difficulty Remembering Date & Time
The memory loss experienced by seniors with Alzheimer’s goes beyond not knowing the current date or time. Seniors may face difficulty remembering current events, and they cannot perceive the difference between night and day. As with young children, the concept of time is beyond comprehension.
The disease also affects short-term memory. You may notice your loved one not remembering what was said in the previous minutes, or he or she may commonly repeat phrases or stories and ask the same questions time and again.
Alzheimer’s disease is just one of the many health issues older adults are susceptible to. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Roseville elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help.
2. Falls, Slips, & Trips
If your loved one has become prone to tripping and falling, it may be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Apart from cognitive issues, Alzheimer’s disease causes disruptions in depth and spatial perception. Unless there’s a high degree of color contrast between objects, they appear to be on the same plane to a senior with Alzheimer’s disease. You might see your loved one walk around specific areas in flooring or rugs, as these are perceived as holes. Your loved one may also trip up or down street curbs. Falls on steps can lead to serious injuries.
3. Disorientation
After the concept of time diminishes, seniors with Alzheimer’s disease can lose place recognition. They may travel down the same streets for decades. However, one day they no longer know where they are and cannot find their way back home. If your loved one goes out unaccompanied, he or she may be at greater risk for getting lost. Seniors with Alzheimer’s are also more prone to danger, as they often lack the ability to discern potentially hazardous situations.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare services families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
4. Behavioral & Emotional Changes
Seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease are often fully aware of the cognitive difficulties they’re experiencing. They become frustrated and may demonstrate irritability when they can no longer accomplish simple tasks. Seniors often become depressed, fearful, and angry as they grieve over the loss of cognitive function.
5. Inability to Recognize Objects
It’s quite common to misplace an object. However, it’s quite another to look at something and not remember the name or purpose of that object. Inability to recognize simple objects could represent memory loss experienced by seniors with Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Roseville Home Care Assistance provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our caregivers help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives. To hire a professional in-home care expert for your loved one, call Home Care Assistance at (916) 226-3737 today.