When a person shows early signs of memory loss, it can feel unsettling. Small changes are normal, but when cognitive abilities decrease and affect everyday life, it’s worth noting. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease can sometimes progress unnoticed, so what should you watch out for? How can you help?
Shifts in memory, mood, personality, and daily functioning can all be signs of Alzheimer’s. Don’t ignore the signs of something wrong—instead, visit a healthcare professional with your parent for a professional checkup and diagnosis.
After a diagnosis, learning more about dementia, Alzheimer’s, and memory care can help you make the right decisions for your loved ones and yourself.
Alzheimer’s Disease: What Is It?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It progressively damages the brain and makes everyday tasks much harder. Over time, this condition affects memory, thinking, behavior, and more, and this quickly creates unique new challenges.
While the exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not fully understood, the condition is closely linked to unique protein buildups in the brain. Although there is no cure, early diagnosis and intervention make managing symptoms significantly easier.
Recognizing the Early Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s
When it comes to Alzheimer’s disease, early detection is key. Noticing subtle shifts early helps you understand whether changes are normal aging or a form of cognitive decline. These are all some of the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Memory Lapses
Memory lapses are often the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease. This can include forgetting appointments, misplacing items frequently, or repeatedly asking the same questions.
It differs from typical aging because forgetfulness impacts everyday activities and routines. You may notice your parent struggles to remember where they left their keys or what they did that day. This can quickly affect the ability to stay independent.
Mood Changes
Early Alzheimer’s disease often brings mood swings or unusual irritability. A once-patient parent may become anxious, frustrated, or withdrawn without a clear cause.
These changes can affect family interactions, so it’s important to approach conversations with empathy. Encouraging open dialogue while remaining supportive helps manage emotional ups and downs.
Communication Issues
Struggling to find the right words, losing track in conversations, or repeating phrases are common signs of cognitive decline.
These issues can make interactions challenging, but staying patient and allowing extra time for communication is helpful. Written reminders or memory aids are valuable tools here, since they can ease frustration for your parent.
Social Withdrawal
A parent may begin avoiding social gatherings, hobbies, or family activities. This shift in behavior is closely linked to early signs of dementia. However, isolation poses significant risks to a person’s well-being, so don’t ignore this sign.
Encouraging gentle participation and maintaining connections supports both cognitive health and emotional balance. This helps prevent withdrawal early on and reduces the risk of long-term isolation.
Challenges with Problem Solving
Alzheimer’s disease damages the parts of the brain responsible for problem-solving. This can quickly lead to strange changes in your loved one’s decision-making. They may make unusual decisions, struggle with once-easy tasks, or need extra help in their day-to-day life.
What to Do if You Think a Parent Has Alzheimer’s Disease
If you suspect your parent is showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preserving their quality of life.
Schedule a Doctor’s Appointment
The first step is to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can evaluate your parent’s symptoms, rule out other conditions, and provide a diagnosis. Early diagnosis can also open the door to treatments and resources that may help slow the progression of cognitive decline.
Educate Yourself About Alzheimer’s
Learning about Alzheimer’s disease helps here. You can better understand what your parent is going through—and learn how you can help. If possible, reach out to a senior care community near you to see if they can offer advice.
At this point, it also helps to look into support resources for yourself. Support groups can help you navigate some of the challenges of caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s disease. This is key to preventing burnout and taking care of yourself.
Consider Memory Care
As the disease progresses, professional care becomes more and more important. Senior care communities like ours can offer your loved one the support they deserve. Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss can be complex, but we know how to help.
This isn’t just about daily care, either. Professional care is a way to give your parent a safe, structured home where their dignity and quality of life are top priorities. With the right memory care community at your side, your parent can thrive.
Supporting Your Parent Through Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is complex. However, you have options. The sooner you notice the early signs of Alzheimer’s, the sooner you can start looking into professional care—and our team at The Legacy of Farmington is here to help.
In our community, we’re dedicated to helping families navigate the challenges of aging. Whether you’re looking for guidance, resources, or professional care, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Schedule a visit with us today to learn more about how we can help your family!
