As we embark on summer and the lovely month of June, we embark on a very important month of awareness; Alzheimer's awareness. Though it is a very prevalent disease, Alzheimer's is one of the most misunderstood illnesses in America. Surrounded by different stigma's, many people do not actually know what Alzheimer's is. According to the Alzheimer's Association, "Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that damages and eventually destroys brain cells, leading to memory loss and changes in thinking and other brain functions. It usually develops slowly and gradually gets worse as brain function declines and brain cells eventually wither and die. Ultimately, Alzheimer's is fatal, and currently, there is no cure."
A terrifying disease, those diagnosed often feel hopeless and misunderstood. Because no one really knows what causes Alzheimer's or how it chooses its victims, those diagnosed are often left confused and wounded.
Although Alzheimer's is very widely misunderstood, there are ten warning signs given by the Alzheimer's Association to be on the lookout for.
1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
One of the most common side effects, memory loss can be forgetting recently learned information or forgetting important events.
2. Challenges in planning/solving problems
Many people experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. This can effect the ability to follow a familiar family recipe.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks
People effected by Alzheimer's often find it hard to complete many daily tasks. People effected may have trouble driving to a familiar place or remembering rules to their favorite card game.
4. Confusion with time or place
A common symptom is losing track of time, dates, and seasons. People may have trouble understanding something that has already happened and may be confused as to how they got to a specific location.
5. Trouble understanding visual images
For some people, not all, vision problems may be a sign of Alzheimer's. These people may have trouble reading, determining colors, and distance problems.
6. Problems with words in speaking and writing
Trouble following or joining into a conversation is a common symptom of Alzheimer's. They may become confused during a conversation and have trouble continuing. People effected may also have problems finding the right words and struggle with vocabulary.
7. Misplacing things and no longer being able to retrace steps
Someone effected by Alzheimer's may put things in odd places. They may also lose things and no longer be able to retrace their steps to find the item.
8. Poor or decreased judgement
A person with Alzheimer's may experience changes in their judgement and decision making. Common examples are the inability to deal with money and paying less attention to their personal hygiene.
9. Withdrawal from work and social activities
Someone with Alzheimer's may begin removing themselves from hobbies, work, sports, or social activities. They may have trouble following their favorite sport team or remembering how to complete their favorite hobbies.
10. Changes in mood and personality
Mood changes in people effected by Alzheimer's are very common. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, and anxious. These individuals may be easily upset.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or an individual you know, do not delay; schedule a doctor's appointment. Early detection can offer you the best treatment and time to plan for the future.
If you or anyone you know would like to speak to a more educated person on Alzheimer's there is a 24/7 Helpline: 1.800.272.3900
For more information on Alzheimer's, please go to http://www.alz.org.
