Do You Know The 10 Early Signs of Alzheimer's?
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease that affects more than 6 million Americans currently living with the disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. In 2021, caregivers provided more than 16 billion hours of care, which was valued at $272 billion. Knowing which symptoms to look for in a loved one can help with early detection, which can be beneficial to both caregivers and the individual in the long run.
10 Early Signs To Look For
The Alzheimer’s Association lists any of these signs and symptoms as warning signs:
Memory Loss
Difficulty Solving Problems
Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks
Confusion with Time or Place
Difficulty Understanding Visual Images (this can include difficulty reading or balance issues)
Difficulty Speaking
Misplacing Items
Poor Judgement
Withdrawal From Work or Social Activities
Changes in Mood
If you notice any of the above in a loved one, schedule an appointment with your doctor. You can learn more about the above signs and symptoms here.
Caregiving for Alzheimer’s Disease
Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer’s can be challenging. The CDC has provided the below tips to help caregivers cope:
Practice self-care. It’s important to take care of yourself first and foremost so that you are healthy and well to take care of someone else.
Understand that you might not be recognized, as some individuals with Alzheimer’s forget people.
Try to meet the person where they are - For example, if they forget the time of day, try not to correct them.
Routine is important. Introducing new things slowly to Alzheimer’s patients is best.
Discuss behavioral changes with the doctor. Some behaviors, such as aggression, can be related to undertreated pain or could be side effects of various medications.
Support is available for those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Communicating with your doctor is important for receiving an accurate diagnosis and learning about the resources available.
Enabling Technology To Support Independent Living with SimplyHome
SimplyHome designs and installs innovative and affordable technology solutions that transform how we care for individuals with disabilities, aging adults, and veterans. Our technology empowers individuals to live their own self-determined lifestyles while addressing the concerns of caregivers.
Our sensor-based systems can adapt over time to alleviate concerns about cooking safety, medication adherence, and the risk of wandering or falls. We work with service providers, managed care organizations (MCOs), and families to mitigate challenges. Caregivers are notified only when they are needed, promoting the highest level of independence possible for the individual.