10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

How do you really know if your parent, spouse, or loved one has Alzheimer’s disease or similar dementia? If a person misplaces things or becomes confused, does this mean that the person has Alzheimer’s? Not necessarily so…

Every person, whether young or old, can experience occasions of forgetfulness. This can be the forgetting of a name, an idea, a place in conversation, amongst other things. However, when forgetfulness and confusion become so prevalent, so as to bring constant interruption to a person’s daily lifestyle functions and activities, this may be a real sign of Alzheimer’s or dementia. At this point, it is time to consult a physician. Below are a few noticeable symptoms of a person with Alzheimer’s or similar dementia:

• Forgetfulness and memory loss


• Lack of concentration and confusion


• Losing things (Or, placing items in inappropriate places)


• Difficulty doing familiar tasks (Such as: driving, washing clothes, cleaning house, etc…)


• Language and speaking problems


• Problems with simple math


• Poor judgment


• Personality changes and mood swings


• Changes in grooming and personal hygiene


• Withdrawing from friends and family

REMEMBER: These are warnings signs when 1 or more of these symptoms occur on a daily or consistent basis, affecting a person’s lifestyle functions and activities.

Rashida Keith, Program Coordinator