Page 24 - Leisure Living

Watch For Warning Signs Of Alzheimer’s
The upcoming holiday season can be an especially important time of year to take a closer look at the phys- ical and cognitive health of family and friends.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, spending time with friends and family members who may not see each other regularly throughout the year provides a great opportunity for a fresh perspective on health and behavior changes.
Cognitive changes can occur with
age; however, memory problems
that impact daily living are not a part
of typical aging. Recognizing the dif-
ferences between normal aging and
potentially more serious problems
can help to identify when it may be time to see a doctor.
Know the 10 Warning Signs
An important part of an early Alzheimer’s diag- nosis is spotting warning signs and bringing them to the attention of a medical professional. Individ- uals may experience one or more of these signs:
• Memory loss that disrupts daily life.
• Challenges in planning or solving problems. • Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home,
at work or at leisure.
• Confusion with time or place.
• Trouble understanding visual images and
spatial relationships.
• New problems with words in speaking or
writing.
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to
retrace steps.
• Decreased or poor judgment.
• Withdrawal from work or social activities.
• Changes in mood and personality.
If you notice any of these signs in yourself, a
family member or a friend, visit your doctor.
Early Diagnosis Is Key
Noticing these signs and seeing your physician may allow for an early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. This is an import- ant step in getting appropriate treatment, care and support services. Once diagnosed, individuals liv- ing with the disease can benefit from treatments
24 |LeisureLiving Autumn 2015
Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s
disease or other dementias is an important step in getting appropriate treatment, care and support services.
that may improve symptoms and help longer maintain a level of independence.
An early diagnosis also affords more time to plan for the future and participate in care deci- sions. Some individuals may even choose to sign up for and participate in a clinical study through Alzheimer’s Association Trial Match, a free, easy- to-use matching service that connects individuals with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, healthy volunteers and physicians with current studies.
A Helpful Resource
Anyone with questions about Alzheimer’s dis- ease or seeking information, including the 10 Warning Signs, clinical studies and resources, should contact the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 toll-free Helpline at 800-272-3900 or visit www. alz.org.
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