Thursday, September 6, 2012

Alzheimer's or Normal Life?


We always hear people say "I think I have Alzheimer's!  I'm always forgetting things...".  Forgetting is a normal part of living, so what  are true symptoms and what is normal? Here's a quick list of common Alzheimer's symptoms, with the functions of a normal person explained in italics:

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life.  A common sign of Alzheimer's is forgetting recently learned information, forgetting common dates, or asking the same question over and over.  Sometimes forgetting names or information, and remembering it later is normal.
2. Difficulty completing familiar tasks.  Alzheimer's sufferers find completing daily routines challenging.  Forgetting how to set the microwave or record a TV show is no need to worry.
3. Difficulty solving problems.  Developing plans or working with numbers can be very frustrating.  For instance, the routine task of paying bills can become insurmountable.  Making errors in the checkbook is common for everyone!
4. Confusion with time or places.  Alzheimer's patients commonly get lost or forget how to return home.  Dates and times are regularly confused for them.  Getting confused or forgetting the day of the week is not unusual for anyone!
5. Misunderstanding images and spatial relationships.  Vision problems, difficulty reading, judging distance, or determining colors are common with Alzheimer's.  It's not unusual for a sufferer to pass a mirror and think that it's another person in the room.  Declining sight or changes related to cataracts are not uncommon as we age.
These are just a few of the warning signs of Alzheimer's, and there are many more which we'll cover later.  If you recognize these symptoms in a loved one, consult a physician as soon as possible.  Early diagnosis provides the best opportunity for successful treatment.
Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our websiteFacebook and Google+!

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