Determining when a loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease is not always easy. We often choose to ignore the early warning signs as merely the effects of aging or as minor quirks. However, detecting the disease early can offer a greater range of opportunities both in medical care and in MassHealth planning. While only a qualified physician can conclude with high certainty that a person has Alzheimer’s disease, below are some of the common early signs of Alzheimer’s as identified by experts:
- Memory lapses
- Confusion over words
- Marked changes in mood or personality
- Trouble with abstract thinking
- Difficulty completing familiar activities
- Disorientation
- Misplacing items
- Poor or impaired judgment
Many of these Alzheimer’s symptoms go unnoticed for a long time because they’re often subtle or well concealed by the person (or a spouse). Also, certain patterns of behavior take time to make themselves obvious. If you detect these signs in a loved one, keep track of what you’re noticing and ask others who know your loved one what they think. If you suspect Alzheimer’s, it would be wise to seek a medical evaluation.
It’s also important to note that Alzheimer’s disease is just one form of dementia. Other types—such as vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia—can present with similar symptoms but may progress differently. Additionally, certain medical conditions like vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid disorders, depression, or even medication side effects can mimic dementia symptoms and may be treatable. That’s why early medical evaluation is crucial—not only to confirm a diagnosis but to explore all potential causes of memory and behavior changes.
