10 Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s You Shouldn’t Ignore

Alzheimer’s disease can often be difficult to detect in its earliest stages, but recognizing the warning signs can make a significant difference. Early intervention can lead to more effective management and support for both you and your loved ones.

Here are 10 common early signs of Alzheimer’s to be aware of and why they matter.

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

Occasionally forgetting appointments or names is normal, but frequent and disruptive memory loss is a red flag. This could include forgetting recently learned information or repeatedly asking the same questions.

Memory issues are often one of the first and most recognized symptoms of Alzheimer’s. This is different than causes of brain fog, which can be improved with lifestyle changes.

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems

Struggling to follow a familiar recipe or keep track of monthly bills may indicate cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s can affect the ability to think through problems, make plans, and follow sequences.

If simple tasks become confusing or overwhelming, it’s time to take note.

3. Challenges Completing Familiar Tasks

Tasks you’ve done countless times, like driving to a familiar location or managing a budget, may suddenly become difficult. Alzheimer’s impacts the ability to complete daily tasks, even those that once felt second nature.

This decline in routine skills can be a sign of cognitive changes.

4. Confusion with Time or Place

Losing track of dates, forgetting where you are, or not understanding the passage of time can all be concerning. Alzheimer’s can cause disorientation that goes beyond the occasional mix-up.

If someone gets lost in a familiar place or can’t recall how they arrived somewhere, it’s worth investigating.

5. Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships

Vision issues not related to eye health, like difficulty judging distance or trouble reading, can signal early Alzheimer’s. These problems can make it hard to drive or navigate spaces safely.

If a loved one starts to have spatial awareness issues, it could be a sign of neurological changes.

6. New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing

Forgetting words, struggling to follow a conversation, or calling things by the wrong name could indicate Alzheimer’s. Difficulty finding the right words or repeating oneself can interfere with communication.

People may also stop mid-sentence and not know how to continue.

7. Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

Everyone misplaces things occasionally, but Alzheimer’s can make it impossible to retrace steps to find them. People may put items in unusual places and become increasingly frustrated when they can’t locate them.

This may lead to accusing others of stealing, which can be distressing.

8. Decreased or Poor Judgment

Making uncharacteristically poor decisions, like giving large amounts of money to telemarketers or neglecting self-care, can be an early sign. Alzheimer’s affects judgment and decision-making skills, sometimes leading to risky behavior or inattention to important tasks.

Watch for drastic changes in how someone manages personal or financial responsibilities.

9. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities

A person experiencing cognitive changes may begin to pull away from hobbies, social activities, or work. They may struggle to remember how to complete a favorite hobby or feel embarrassed about their memory lapses.

Isolation can accelerate cognitive decline, so noticing early withdrawal is important.

10. Changes in Mood and Personality

Sudden mood swings, increased irritability, or signs of depression can accompany the onset of Alzheimer’s. People may become more anxious, fearful, or suspicious as their understanding of the world changes.

Pay attention to shifts in mood or personality that seem out of character.

• Category: Fitness