Is It Alzheimer’s? How to Spot Symptoms That Should Concern You
As our loved ones age, it's important to know what to look for when it comes to symptoms related to early stages of Alzheimer's disease. What are the normal symptoms of cognitive aging versus ones that are more severe and could be indicative of dementia?
Brain processing speed peaks as early as age 30 and then declines gradually with age. Slowed processing speed may be an important contributor to many other aspects of cognitive aging. As we age, it takes more effort to multitask and divide attention between two or more areas of concern. It is not unusual or necessarily pathological as we grow older to misplace an object of minor significance. Forgetting the reason for walking to another room, a failure of prospective memory, can also become more common with increasing age. Certain types of problem solving behavior grouped together as examples of “executive function” often become less fluid and automatic in later years.
The aging of our brains is a highly individualized process and does not depend only on the number of years one has lived. Genetic predisposition, medical health, diet, alcohol use, smoking, and physical activity are some of the factors that affect how our brains age.
Among older adults who cross the line between “normal cognitive aging” and pathological cognitive decline, the most common diagnosis is Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease, unlike typical cognitive aging, reflects a severe destruction of brain cells in very specific brain areas and results in symptoms that are more severe and more frequent. What are some early symptoms?
- Memory loss, such as forgetting significant things have happened and not just temporarily forgetting a name
- Taking longer to accomplish normal daily tasks
- Losing track of where you are
- Making misguided decisions, such as falling victim to scams directed at seniors
- Concern from others regarding changes in your personality, such as loss of initiative and spontaneity, or increased anxiety or irritability
- Shorter attention span
- Inappropriate anger outbursts
- Impaired recognition of family and friends
- Inability to carry out multiple sequenced steps, such as following a recipe
- Difficulty learning new things or coping with new or unexpected situations
- Restlessness
Some 9 percent of apparent dementias represent reversible disorders and the right treatments can diminish the harm associated with many other dementias. Even among dementias that are not yet considered reversible, an accurate diagnosis can guide the way to a best choice for reducing cognitive and behavioral symptoms.
For those of us eager to reduce the toll that age takes on brain health and function, remember that healthy physical activity, adequate sleep, good nutrition, avoidance of smoking, moderation in alcohol use, stress reduction, and social engagement will help pave the way to healthier brain aging. Pay attention to the symptoms and know that early detection can make a world of difference.
The original article is from brightfocus.org and can be accessed here.