As we age, our body and mind become less ‘flexible’ than they used to be, and we’re often prone to forgetfulness and other frustrating limitations that occur with the 'normal' ageing process.
However, there are some clear signs if it's a serious mental deterioration. These signs could be an indication of the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia. It is vital to seek help as soon as possible, so that the best care can be taken to ensure the highest quality of life for the sufferer and their family.
The majority of individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s live for between three and nine years after diagnosis.
1. Memory loss
Temporary forgetfulness – such as forgetting an acquaintance’s name, and the occasional appointment is a normal symptom of ageing. However, forgetting recent information, important dates, the names of close family members ... these are warning signs you need to look out for.
Individuals may become anxious about forgetting something, and rely heavily on memory aids such as sticky-notes for day-to-day activities like setting the alarm, feeding the dog and so on …
2. Forgetting how to do familiar things
Technology is progressing at an alarming pace, and we can all be forgiven for not being up-to-date with the latest gadgets and social media platforms. Younger family members come to the rescue when it comes to loading new photos to Facebook, or learning how to use a new cell phone.
Those displaying early Alzheimer’s warning signs might forget how to use familiar technology – such as dialling a phone, remembering the rules of a favourite game, or how to drive. They may also forget the route to a familiar destination.
3. Struggling to solve numerical problems
Most of us end up with a slightly unbalanced chequebook at the end of the month where we can’t account for a few rands and cents.
Those suffering from the early signs of Alzheimer’s may ‘lose’ large sums of money, without knowing where it went. They may have difficulty comprehending the weights and measures in a recipe, or forget phone numbers that they once knew by heart.
Most of us end up with a slightly unbalanced chequebook at the end of the month where we can’t account for a few rands and cents.
Those suffering from the early signs of Alzheimer’s may ‘lose’ large sums of money, without knowing where it went. They may have difficulty comprehending the weights and measures in a recipe, or forget phone numbers that they once knew by heart.
4. Changes in ‘everyday’ behaviour
The occasional pyjama day is permitted – where you’re allowed to skip your shower and spend the day vegging out on the couch watching your favourite series. In fact, it’s probably something you should add to your ‘to do’ list if you haven’t had any ‘me time’ for a while.
Individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s may become more dishevelled. They may stop brushing their teeth and hair, forget to shower, and may not change their clothes very often. Poor hygiene and stained clothing is a clear warning sign of the onset of dementia associated with Alzheimer’s.
The occasional pyjama day is permitted – where you’re allowed to skip your shower and spend the day vegging out on the couch watching your favourite series. In fact, it’s probably something you should add to your ‘to do’ list if you haven’t had any ‘me time’ for a while.
Individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s may become more dishevelled. They may stop brushing their teeth and hair, forget to shower, and may not change their clothes very often. Poor hygiene and stained clothing is a clear warning sign of the onset of dementia associated with Alzheimer’s.
