5 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease and What You Can Do

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. While it’s commonly associated with aging, catching the early signs can make a world of difference in managing the disease and improving quality of life. Whether you’re a caregiver or concerned about a loved one, recognizing the early symptoms can help you take proactive steps. Below are five early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and local resources in Daytona Beach to help you navigate care options.

Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

One of the hallmark signs of Alzheimer’s is forgetfulness, particularly forgetting recently learned information. This could manifest as frequently forgetting important dates or events or repeatedly asking for the same information. While occasional memory lapses are normal, when they begin to interfere with everyday life, it’s time to take action.

What You Can Do: Consider seeking a medical evaluation from specialists in Daytona Beach. Halifax Health Neuroscience Institute offers comprehensive cognitive assessments. Early diagnosis through memory testing can help manage symptoms more effectively.

Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems

People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s may struggle to develop or follow a plan. Tasks that were once routine, like balancing a checkbook or following a recipe, may suddenly become difficult or confusing. They may also have trouble concentrating and take much longer to do things than before.

What You Can Do: Reach out to local support networks such as the Alzheimer’s Association Central and North Florida Chapter in Daytona Beach. They offer workshops and seminars that provide practical advice on managing these new challenges. Additionally, a home health care agency can step in to assist with day-to-day activities, ensuring that your loved one is cared for in a structured and supportive environment.

Confusion with Time or Place

Alzheimer’s often causes disorientation about time and place. Someone with the disease may lose track of dates, seasons, or even the passage of time. They might forget where they are or how they got there, leading to confusion and anxiety.

What You Can Do: Consider scheduling an appointment with a local neurologist, like those at Florida Health Care Plans in Daytona Beach. Regular medical monitoring can help track cognitive decline and provide insights into how best to handle disorientation and memory issues. As a caregiver, using visual aids like calendars and clocks can help maintain a routine.

Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships

Alzheimer’s can affect the way a person perceives images and space. This may result in difficulties with balance, judging distance, or recognizing faces. Tasks like reading, driving, or even walking may become harder and pose safety risks.

What You Can Do: To ensure your loved one’s safety, home modifications like better lighting, removing clutter, and adding handrails can make a big difference. For more severe cases, in-home care specialists from our agency in Daytona Beach can provide customized care plans to improve safety and independence at home.

Misplacing Things and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

Everyone misplaces things occasionally, but a person with Alzheimer’s may place objects in unusual locations and be unable to retrace their steps. They may even accuse others of stealing, which can be frustrating for both the person and their caregivers.

What You Can Do: If this behavior becomes more frequent, contact a professional caregiver to assist with routine tasks. Our home health care agency in Daytona Beach specializes in Alzheimer’s care, helping manage these symptoms by providing organized, structured environments that promote peace of mind.

Local Resources in Daytona Beach for Alzheimer’s Care

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these early signs of Alzheimer’s, it’s crucial to take immediate steps toward diagnosis and care. Daytona Beach offers several resources that can support you in navigating this journey:

• Halifax Health Neuroscience Institute: Provides comprehensive cognitive assessments and neurological care for those with memory issues.
• Alzheimer’s Association Central and North Florida Chapter: Offers local support groups, educational resources, and seminars for caregivers and families.
• Onyx Home Care: We offer personalized in-home care tailored to meet the specific needs of those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, ensuring your loved one can live safely and comfortably at home.

Take Action

If you’ve noticed any of these early signs in a loved one, early intervention is critical to managing Alzheimer’s disease. Onyx Home Care in Daytona Beach specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care, providing compassionate and professional support to families in need.

Call us today to discuss how we can help create a care plan tailored to your family’s needs. Let us help you and your loved ones navigate this challenging time with dignity and peace of mind.