10 Warning Signs You Have Alzheimer's, Says CDC
Classic crooner Tony Bennett revealed to AARP he has Alzheimer's, a progressive disease, where dementia symptoms gradually get worse. "Memory often changes as people grow older," says the CDC. "Some people notice changes in themselves before anyone else does. For other people, friends and family are the first to see changes in memory, behavior, or abilities. People with one or more of these 10 warning signs should see a doctor to find the cause. Early diagnosis gives them a chance to seek treatment and plan for the future." Read on to see the signs—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You Have "Long" COVID and May Not Even Know It.
Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life
Like "forgetting events, repeating yourself or relying on more aids to help you remember (like sticky notes or reminders)," says the CDC.
Challenges in Planning or Solving Problems
Like "having trouble paying bills or cooking recipes you have used for years," says the CDC.
Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks at Home, at Work, or at Leisure
Like "having problems with cooking, driving places, using a cell phone, or shopping," says the CDC.
Confusion With Time or Place
Like "having trouble understanding an event that is happening later, or losing track of dates," says the CDC.
Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relations
Like "having more difficulty with balance or judging distance, tripping over things at home, or spilling or dropping things more often," says the CDC.
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New Problems With Words in Speaking or Writing
Like "having trouble following or joining a conversation or struggling to find a word you are looking for (saying 'that thing on your wrist that tells time' instead of 'watch')," says the CDC.
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Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
Like "placing car keys in the washer or dryer or not being able to retrace steps to find something," says the CDC.
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Decreased or Poor Judgment
Like "being a victim of a scam, not managing money well, paying less attention to hygiene, or having trouble taking care of a pet," per the CDC.
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Withdrawal From Work or Social Activities
Like "not wanting to go to church or other activities as you usually do, not being able to follow football games or keep up with what's happening," according to the CDC.
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Changes in Mood and Personality
Like "getting easily upset in common situations or being fearful or suspicious," says the CDC.
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What to Do If You Experience These Symptoms
"Life is a gift—even with Alzheimer's," tweeted Bennett. But remember: "Memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a typical part of aging," says the CDC. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a medical professional. "More than half of people with memory loss have not talked to their healthcare provider, but that doesn't have to be you. Get comfortable with starting a dialogue with your medical provider if you observe any changes in memory or an increase in confusion, or just if you have any questions." And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don't miss these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.
