Alzheimer’s disease is about more than occasional forgetfulness. It’s a complicated disease that happens when proteins in the brain do not function as usual, leading to a variety of symptoms as the brain shrinks.
As we mark Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we checked in with Becky Philpot, a Nurse Practitioner with ThedaCare Senior Care, to discuss warning signs.
Defining Alzheimer’s
“Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that impacts memory, thinking and language skills, and the ability to carry out the simplest tasks,” according to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. “Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. Dementia itself is not a disease, but a term used to describe symptoms such as loss of memory, judgment and other intellectual functions.”
About one in nine — or 6.9 million — people in the United States ages 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s disease. Among them, more than 70% are age 75 or older.
Understanding Symptoms
While memory loss is the most recognizable symptom of Alzheimer’s, Philpot says multiple symptoms can indicate someone may have the disease.
Common symptoms include:
- Memory loss. This often disrupts daily living activities and includes forgetting recently learned information or important dates as well as repetitively asking the same questions.
- Challenges with planning and solving problems. This may include struggling with following recipes, keeping track of monthly bills or having trouble driving to familiar locations.
- Confusion with time and place. The person may not know where they are, why they’re there or how they got there.
- Trouble with abstract thinking. Someone may have a hard time understanding visual images, spatial relationships or balance. They also may struggle to understand numbers or do simple arithmetic.
- New problems with speaking and writing. Initiating or following a conversation may become difficult.
- Misplacing items. This goes beyond everyday absentmindedness. This might include putting items in odd places, such as a toothbrush in the refrigerator.
- Decreased or poor judgment. This could include difficulty with money management or poor grooming.
- Withdrawal from work or social activities. The affected person may give up activities they’d formerly enjoyed or isolate from others.
- Changes in mood or personality. People may become confused, fearful, depressed or anxious.
Having the Conversation
It’s often someone other than the affected individual who recognizes symptoms first.
“Family and friends usually recognize the changes. However, because of stigma and denials along with the challenges in diagnosing Alzheimer’s, it can take one to four years to get a diagnosis,” Philpot says.
It can be difficult when a person suspects someone in their life may have Alzheimer’s. When approaching memory concerns in others, assess the situation and note changes you’re seeing. From there, ask whether they’re experiencing any other health or life issues that may be affecting their behavior.
It’s a good idea to ask others — such as another relative or friend — if they’ve noticed changes as well. You can then include that person’s perspective when you talk with your loved one or friend about your concerns.
“Talking with someone about their memory issues isn’t easy, but you can start off by saying ‘I’ve noticed a change in you, and I’m concerned. Have you noticed anything?’” Philpot says. “Or you can mention that the person doesn’t seem like their usual self.”
Getting Diagnosed
It may take a few conversations before the person agrees to see their primary care physician or advanced practice provider, Philpot says. Offer to attend the medical appointment with your friend or family member to show support. A person may go through cognitive tests, lab work and imaging to diagnose Alzheimer’s.
If you’re concerned about Alzheimer’s in yourself, you can ask your medical provider for a cognitive screening during a preventive health care visit. While only 16% of older adults receive the screenings, Philpot encourages people to be proactive in asking for cognitive exams.
Prevention Steps
While there’s no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are ways to delay its onset, Philpot says. Eating a healthy diet, staying active, maintaining social connections, following healthy sleep habits and managing stress can slow Alzheimer’s progress.
“Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as doing puzzles, reading and learning new skills can help with maintaining cognitive function as well,” Philpot says. “People should also address any hearing loss since that can limit social engagement.”
Above all, have the conversation with your health care team if you have concerns.
“Our teams are here for you and your loved one and can help guide diagnosis and treatment,” Philpot says.
