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10 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia to Watch For

Recognizing the early signs of Alzheimer’s can be challenging—especially since many symptoms can be mistaken for typical aging. However, when memory loss or behavior changes begin to interfere with daily life, it may be time to take a closer look.

What are early signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia?

Here are 10 early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia that adult children and caregivers should be aware of:

1. Memory Problems

We all forget things occasionally, especially when tired or distracted. But someone experiencing the early signs of Alzheimer’s may forget entire conversations, miss important dates, or get lost in familiar places.
When memory loss begins to disrupt daily life, it’s more than just forgetfulness—it’s a reason to consult a doctor.

2. Word-Finding Difficulty

Trouble finding the right words can be one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s. Your loved one might pause mid-sentence, use vague terms like “that thing,” or substitute incorrect but related words. In some cases, they may revert to a first language or a childhood language. These issues often vary depending on the time of day or alertness level.

3. Impaired Judgment

One early sign of Alzheimer’s is impaired decision-making, which can put a person at risk. For example, they may dress inappropriately for the weather—like wearing shorts on a freezing day—or ignore signs of a medical issue. These lapses may seem small at first but can have serious consequences over time.

4. Noticeable Behavior Changes

Shifts in mood and personality—especially sudden ones—can be an indicator of dementia. Someone who is typically calm may become easily agitated or suspicious. If emotional reactions seem out of character or escalate quickly, it’s time to pay closer attention.

5. Difficulty with Daily Tasks

Alzheimer’s often impacts a person’s ability to complete everyday activities—especially those with multiple steps. You might notice confusion when getting dressed, preparing a meal, or managing medications. Tasks that once came naturally may now take much longer or be done incorrectly.

6. Misplacing Items in Unusual Places

Losing keys occasionally is normal—but consistently placing common items in strange spots (like a remote in the freezer or a wallet in a sock drawer) can be a warning sign. If it’s becoming a pattern, it may be time to consider a memory evaluation.

7. Increased Anxiety or Agitation

You may notice your loved one becoming more anxious about routine tasks or lashing out unexpectedly. This could stem from confusion, fear, or frustration due to cognitive decline. Increased irritability is a common early symptom of dementia.

8. Withdrawal from Social Activities

Someone in the early stages of Alzheimer’s may begin pulling away from hobbies, conversations, or social outings. If a previously outgoing individual starts avoiding gatherings or seems overwhelmed by group interactions, it may be because they’re struggling to keep up and are embarrassed or frustrated.

9. Poor Spatial Awareness

Dementia can affect vision, depth perception, and coordination. For example, a person might perceive a dark rug as a hole in the floor and become afraid to walk across it. These spatial misinterpretations can increase the risk of falls or accidents.

10. Changes in Sleep Patterns

Changes in sleep are another early sign of Alzheimer’s. A person may wake up frequently, have difficulty falling asleep, or confuse day and night. Managing caffeine intake and ensuring gentle physical activity during the day can help, but persistent sleep disruption may point to underlying cognitive changes.

Know the Signs—Take the Next Step

These are just a few of the early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia to watch for. If you recognize these changes in someone you love, you’re not alone—and there is support.

At Northbridge, our Avita Memory Care communities are built to meet your loved one where they are, offering compassionate care and programs designed specifically for those living with memory loss.

👉 Explore our Memory Care FAQ
👉 Find a Northbridge Avita Memory Care Community near you

Sources:
🔗 Mayo Clinic: Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
🔗 Alzheimer’s and Language
🔗 NIDCD: Aphasia
🔗 Color Theory & Dementia