As one of the most devastating diseases in the elderly population, learning that your loved one has Alzheimer’s is not an easy process to go through. If you suspect that somebody close to you may be experiencing the early signs of Alzheimer’s, it is important to consult the care of a medical care provider as soon as possible so that you can get a definitive diagnosis. Here are five symptoms of Alzheimer’s and what you can do to help your loved one.

Difficulty with Familiar Tasks

One of the most common early signs of the onset of Alzheimer’s is difficulty completing routine tasks. This often presents itself if somebody suddenly forgets how to drive to a familiar location. Those with early Alzheimer’s also may have challenges remember what types of food they like to get at the grocery store or even remembering the rules of a game that they have always played. It is understandable for elderly people to become confused about new technology or tasks outside of their comfort zone. When you need to worry is when they have difficulty completing familiar tasks.

Challenges Finding Words or Phrases

Nearly everyone has been in the position when the right word is escaping you. However, it is a cause for concern when this happens with increasing regularity. Those with Alzheimer’s are known to stop suddenly in the middle of a conversation and not know how to continue the flow of words. Repeating the same words and phrases within a conversation is another sign that the memory may be faltering.

Increasing Memory Loss

While it is normal to become somewhat forgetful as you age, memory loss that is continually affecting daily life is a red flag that someone may be experiencing the onset of Alzheimer’s. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, patients are likely able to remember events and names from in the past but have issues recalling recently learned information. It is also common for individuals with early Alzheimer’s to forget important dates and names and to ask the same questions over and over. Constantly misplacing items and not being able to locate them is another sign that Alzheimer’s may be taking hold of the brain.

Issues with Solving Problems

If you notice that your loved one is having difficulties solving problems, you should investigate the issue further to ascertain if it is possibly related to Alzheimer’s. This is especially common if they are having difficulties grasping numbers. The onset of Alzheimer’s may also change the ability of a person to follow a recipe or do their bills and monthly budgeting. If you notice that these everyday tasks are becoming difficult to complete, it is a good idea to make an appointment with a professional for an evaluation.

Changes in Mood and Personality

It is not uncommon for the elderly to develop specific routines as they grow older. However, it may be suspicious if these new routines are accompanied by sudden changes in mood and personality. Individuals showing signs of Alzheimer’s are sometimes easily confused and anxious. You also may notice that your normally happy loved one is growing increasingly sad or fearful. Suspicion of innocuous situations or people is another warning sign that Alzheimer’s may be developing. Poor judgment when it comes to personal hygiene and grooming is another common cause for concern.

How to Detect Alzheimer’s?

If you are unsure if your loved one is experiencing the early onset of this debilitating disease, there are things that you can do to get a definitive diagnosis. One of the most promising developments is the modern Prion early detection testing. This early detection of Alzheimer’s for drug companies is revolutionizing the way that medical care providers can both detect and treat this terrible disease. Regardless of if your loved one has already demonstrated some of the above common symptoms or if you are simply worried that they have a family history that makes them susceptible, this early detection testing can be an invaluable tool.

There is nothing easy about dealing with Alzheimer’s. However, like all medical issues, knowledge is power. Equipping yourself with the best tools and information will help you to fight this disease head-on.