The First Signs

A very interesting compilation of stories from Alzheimer’s caregivers involved with the “Alzheimer's Reading Room” blog. These caregivers share the first “red flags” they had noticed in their loved one’s behavior. Also, a list of the most common indicators of the onset of a detrimental mental disease, including driving, erratic behavior, misuse of money, hoarding and walking/balance problems.

Looking back, there is little doubt in my mind that if I had the proper education or information I would have realized my mother was suffering from dementia sooner.

Most people like me tend to ignore the symptoms at first believing they are simply signs of "old age". Anyone who ends up in my shoes knows and understands that a person in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s can function with some normality -- even drive a car. It is not until they deteriorate or until some "event" takes place that we wake up to reality.

Mother's Day weekend is a good time for family and friends to get together and talk about any new and different behaviors they are noticing in an elderly spouse, parent, or friend.

My rule of thumb is clear and straight forward. If you think there is something wrong there probably is something wrong. Letting it go until things worsen is often a mistake. Waiting usually leads to greater heart ache, stress, and anxiety. Sometimes guilt.

Alzheimer's caregivers understand what I am saying, and what I mean. We have been there.

Here are a few things that come up over and over when talking to Alzheimer's caregivers. These are behaviors they noticed well before any diagnosis of Alzheimer's dementia was made..

Read More at Alzheimer’s Reading Room

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