How to Spot Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that affects millions of individuals and their families worldwide, reshaping the lives of those it touches in deeply personal ways.

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that gradually impairs memory, thinking, and behavior to the point that it interferes with daily life. It’s believed to be caused by a combination of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors that affect the brain over time. There are several different kinds of dementia, with Alzheimer’s being the most common type.

The estimated prevalence of Texans aged 65 years with Alzheimer’s in 2020 was 459,300 people or 11.9% of the state’s population. Alzheimer’s does not discriminate and people of every ethnicity, gender, and background can get it. The greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is age.

Recognizing Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

Earlier recognition of Alzheimer’s can lead to earlier intervention and a better quality of life. Paying attention to signs such as memory loss, confusion, or difficulty with language is therefore important.

Alzheimer’s can manifest in various ways. Some common early signs can include the following:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life. Examples: Forgetting learned information like a neighbor’s name, or repeatedly misplacing items like keys or glasses in unusual spots such as the freezer and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
• Difficulty planning or following instructions. Examples: Struggling to balance a checkbook, forgetting to pay bills on time, or getting confused while following familiar recipes and skipping steps or adding the wrong ingredients.
• Challenges with visual perception and spatial awareness. Examples: Misjudging distances, thresholds, or surfaces, which can lead to an increased risk of tripping over objects, bumping into furniture, or falling.
• Changes in mood or personality. Examples: Being previously cheerful and then becoming unusually irritable or suspicious, or withdrawal and avoiding social events because of embarrassment or frustration over memory lapses.

If you notice any of these signs in a loved one or even yourself, it’s essential to seek medical care as quickly as possible. Many individuals are unaware of their condition and therefore end up delaying important medical care. Legacy Community Health offers personalized support through our Senior Care services, ensuring compassionate and holistic care for all of our patients. To set up an appointment call (832) 548-5000 or go online.