Signs of Alzheimers

It is estimated that more than 3 million people in the United States suffer from dementia. This disease may be hard to recognize in its early stages, and when symptoms do start to surface, they are sometimes thought to be normal signs of aging. Although Alzheimer's disease cannot be reversed, early detection allows for treatment of some of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Risk factors for Alzheimer's disease include genetics and aging. There also is increasing evidence that conditions such as coronary disease, stroke, high blood pressure, a high cholesterol level and a deficiency in folate may put one at risk for the disease.

Memory

• One very common sign of Alzheimer's disease are memory problems. Someone with Alzheimer's disease may find learning something new a challenging experience. Alzheimer's disease may also cause someone with the disease to have trouble remembering words.

Loss of Interest in Life

• A person who suffer from Alzheimer's disease sometimes loses interest in hobbies, games, or any other activity she enjoyed before the onset of Alzheimer's disease. She lacks enthusiasm, and most of the time will be content doing nothing at all.

Attention Deficit

• An inability to remain focused on a task another sign of Alzheimer's disease, and even if that person does engage in an activity, he will quickly lose his desire to stick with it.

Loss of Ability to Reason

• Alzheimer's disease robs its victim of her ability to think of solutions to problems she may encounter in life, whether in the workplace or the home. Someone with Alzheimer's disease may also forget how to act in public and may do something socially unacceptable.

Changes in Behavior

• A change in the way one acts may be an indication of Alzheimer's disease. Someone who was once a quiet and even-tempered may now get easily agitated and express his anger loudly or physically.

Loses Her Way

• Getting lost is a classic sign of Alzheimer's disease. A person who suffers from this disease may easily get lost on her way to a store down the block. This person may forget the way to places she's visited time and time again.

Slowing Down

• A person with Alzheimer's disease may no longer be able to work quickly. Tasks that were once easy to accomplish may now take more time.