Alzheimer Symptoms

Over 5.3 million people in the United States have Alzheimer's disease. It is a progressive disease of the brain causing brain cells to be destroyed. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but there are treatments and services available. Recognizing symptoms is key because early onset can start for some people in their 30s.

Memory

• Perhaps the most significant and common signs of Alzheimer's disease is forgetting new and recently acquired information. Forgetting important dates, events and asking repeatedly for the same information are other clues.

Problem Solving

• Simple everyday tasks may become problematic and difficult. Trying to pay monthly bills, following a recipe or concentrating on a chore may be impossible.

Confusion

• People suffering with Alzheimer's disease may forget where they are, how they got there and how to get home. They can lose track of time, seasons and dates and cannot comprehend something if it is not happening at the exact moment.

Vision, Speech and Writing Problems

• Vision problems are also symptomatic of Alzheimer's disease. Difficulty reading, deciphering color, distance and contrast can be affected. Joining in and following a conversation may be difficult and finding the right words can be a struggle.

Losing Things, Poor Judgment and Withdrawal

• A person with Alzheimer's disease may put things in the wrong places or lose them completely. They may use poor judgment and become withdrawn socially.

Fact

• Someone develops Alzheimer's disease every 70 seconds. It is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.