According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 to 80 percent of all known dementia cases. At this time there is no cure, but some treatments can ease symptoms and delay its progression.
Early Onset Alzheimer’s: Symptoms
There are several distinct symptoms of memory loss that may indicate Alzheimer’s. If your loved experiences one or more, see your doctor.
The most prevalent symptom is memory loss. While all of us are forgetful at one time or another, the symptoms in early onset, are more severe and constant. For example,
Your loved one may–
- forget recently learned information
- ask for same information repeatedly
- have a higher reliance on memory aids, such as calendars and notes
- forget important events or dates
A person with early-onset Alzheimer’s will have more noticeable memory loss and may repeatedly forget the same information.
Early Onset Alzheimer’s: Daily Tasks Are A Disaster
Another symptom displayed by people with early onset is constant difficulty to complete simple tasks.
- forget how to get to a grocery store, restaurant, or place of employment
- have problems balancing a home or work budget
- forget the rules of a familiar game
A fitting example is if a person has used the same phone for years and suddenly cannot remember how to use the phone.
Confusion about location and time
Previously familiar places are now unknown and perceived as brand new locations. They also experience may have trouble keeping track of the day of the week, seasons, months, or time of day.
Frequently misplacing items and not being able to retrace steps
Most people will lose items at some time but are usually able to locate them again by searching in logical locations and retracing their steps.
A person with Alzheimer’s can repeatedly forget where they placed an item, especially if they put it in an unusual place.
Alzheimer’s also makes it difficult for a person to retrace their steps to find the missing item. This can be distressing and may cause the person to believe someone is stealing from them.
Consistently Poor Judgment
Everyone makes bad decisions at times. People with early-onset Alzheimer’s, however, may display a marked change in their ability to make good decisions.
Signs of poor judgment include:
- spending too much on unnecessary items
- showing inattention to personal grooming
- not showering or cleaning themselves regularly
Mood swings, Depression
In ear onset Alzheimer’s the person easily becomes confused, anxious, suspicious, or depressed. They may show these signs in a variety of settings, including at work, at home, and in unfamiliar places.
Early Onset Alzheimer’s: Treatments
As there is no cure at this time, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining a reasonably good quality of life.
Related health issues such as insomnia can be treated with medication. Also, there are medications that help with symptoms of depression nd anxiety
A person may also benefit from talking to a counselor about any behavioral changes they experience. Also, some medications are available to help with symptoms of depression or anxiety.
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