Matthew Bussard Reveals 9 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease in Seniors

Originally published on sundial.csun.edu

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia. It causes memory loss and cognitive function that can interfere with the daily life of a senior. Some people witnessing symptoms of Alzheimer’s may think that those are simply the signs of aging, but unfortunately, Alzheimer’s can begin before the retirement age. Since it’s a progressive disease, knowing the symptoms is vital to start treatment as soon as possible. Here, Matthew Bussard, a Medicare expert from Rhode Island, provides nine early signs of Alzheimer’s in seniors you need to know about.

1. Forgetfulness

Does your senior forget about events, tell you a story they already shared over and over, or need reminders to help them remember things? Pay attention, as memory loss is one of the first warning signs of Alzheimer’s.

2. Problems With Regular Tasks

People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to remember how to complete regular tasks such as paying their bills, making a call, driving to a store, shopping, or cooking their signature meal.

3. Mental Confusion

It may become challenging for a senior to remember the events that just happened or what is happening later that day. They may forget what day it is and lose track of time.

4. Difficulties Balancing

One of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s is a lack of balance or ability to judge distance. Seniors may run into things around the house or trip over apparent objects. At the dinner table, they may drop items or spill them accidentally. These debilitating symptoms are often due to their inability to understand visual images and objects in the space around them.

5. Hard Time Finding Words

Let’s face it, we all have a hard time finding a word once in a while. But if you notice your senior have issues with carrying on a conversation logically or finding the right words, it may be an early sign of Alzheimer’s.

6. Losing Things

Seniors with Alzheimer’s often misplaced items and can’t seem to remember where they could be. What’s more, sometimes objects they were looking for end up in strange places where they don’t belong, such as house keys in a washing machine.

7. Poor Judgement

Unfortunately, many people become victims of scammers, especially seniors with Alzheimer’s. They may have a hard time judging if the situation is safe, managing their money, taking care of themselves or their pets.

8. Avoidance of Socializing

Did your senior stop going to church after years of attending the mess daily? It could be due to Alzheimer’s.

9. Mood Swings

People with Alzheimer’s may experience anger or fear in everyday situations that didn’t cause them distress in the past. They can have personality changes that are not hard to notice and affect their relationships with others.

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, early detection and treatment may help prevent more severe symptoms. Talk to your family doctor if you’ve noticed any or all of these symptoms.

About Matthew Bussard

Matthew Bussard is the go-to financial service broker for Medicare users across Rhode Island. He volunteers at clinics to help clients enroll in Medicare, alleviate any unnecessary medical expenses, and answer healthcare benefits questions. He is passionate about making a difference in his clients’ lives. Mr. Bussard understands the importance of proper healthcare, especially among the older population. He works hard to address his clients’ issues as quickly and efficiently as possible and is always available to guide them through the enrollment process.