September is recognized as World Alzheimer’s Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, promote understanding, and encourage early diagnosis. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually impacting the ability to carry out even the simplest tasks. With an estimated 6.2 million Americans aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s in 2024, understanding the early signs and knowing where to find support can make a significant difference.
Recognizing the Early Signs of Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease often begins with mild memory loss and confusion but progresses over time to more severe cognitive impairment. Here are some of the early signs to watch for:
Memory Loss that Disrupts Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or repeatedly asking for the same information.
Challenges in Planning or Solving Problems: Difficulty following familiar recipes, managing finances, or keeping track of monthly bills.
Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Trouble driving to a known location, managing a budget, or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time; forgetting where they are or how they got there.
Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships: Difficulty reading, judging distance, or determining color or contrast, which may cause problems with driving.
New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing: Trouble following or joining a conversation, repeating themselves, or struggling to find the right word.
Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps: Placing items in unusual places, losing things, and not being able to retrace steps to find them again.
Decreased or Poor Judgment: Making uncharacteristically poor financial decisions, neglecting personal grooming, or giving large amounts to telemarketers.
Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities: Avoiding social engagements, hobbies, or work projects due to difficulty keeping up with conversations or tasks.
Changes in Mood and Personality: Becoming easily upset, confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious, especially in unfamiliar situations.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Early detection of Alzheimer’s is crucial for several reasons:
Access to Treatment: While there is no cure, early-stage diagnosis allows for treatments that may help alleviate symptoms or slow progression.
Planning for the Future: Early diagnosis gives individuals and families time to make informed decisions about medical care, legal, and financial planning.
Participation in Clinical Trials: Early detection allows access to clinical trials that could provide new treatments and advance research.
Support Resources for Those Affected by Alzheimer’s
If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of Alzheimer’s, several resources can provide support:
Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 helpline (1-800-272-3900) for support, information, and resources. Their website also provides educational materials, support groups, and caregiver resources.Local Community Services
Many communities offer local resources such as memory cafes, support groups, respite care, and adult day programs for those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.Medical Professionals
Consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. Neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists can help manage care and symptoms.Caregiver Support Networks
Organizations like the National Institute on Aging and AARP provide resources for caregivers, including tips on managing stress, legal advice, and planning tools.
Getting Involved During World Alzheimer’s Month
September is an excellent time to get involved in raising awareness and supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s. Consider participating in a local Walk to End Alzheimer’s, hosting a fundraising event, or simply sharing information about the disease with your community.
By recognizing the early signs of Alzheimer’s and knowing where to find support, we can work together to make a difference in the lives of those affected by this challenging disease.
Sources:
Alzheimer’s Association. (2024). Facts and Figures.
National Institute on Aging. (2024). Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Alzheimer’s Disease and Healthy Aging.
