Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The early signs can be subtle, but recognizing them helps with early diagnosis and better management.

Common Early Signs of Alzheimer’s

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life
Frequently forgetting recent events, names, appointments, or asking for the same information repeatedly.

2. Difficulty Planning or Solving Problems
Struggling to follow steps in a recipe, pay bills, or keep track of monthly expenses.

3. Trouble Completing Familiar Tasks
Difficulty doing routine things like driving to a known location, using a mobile phone, or managing a budget.

4. Confusion with Time or Place
Losing track of dates, seasons, or where they are—even in familiar surroundings.

5. Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships
Problems with balance, judging distance, or reading, which may cause difficulty driving.

6. Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing
Stopping mid-conversation, struggling to find the right word, or calling things by the wrong name.

7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps
Putting things in unusual places (like keys in the fridge) and being unable to find them later.

8. Poor Judgment or Decision-Making
Giving away large amounts of money, neglecting grooming, or falling for scams.

9. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities
Losing interest in hobbies, work, or social gatherings they once enjoyed.

10. Changes in Mood and Personality
Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious without clear reasons.

When to See a Doctor
If someone is experiencing several of these signs, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis allows for better planning, support, and treatment options.