Mom has been telling the same story twice in one conversation. Grandpa missed his anniversary for the first time in 48 years. Is this just getting older? Or is it something more?
It's true that our behavior and abilities naturally shift as we age. But when memory loss starts to disrupt everyday life, it could point to something more serious — like Alzheimer's disease or another dementia. How do you tell the difference between typical aging and a warning sign?
Signs of Alzheimer's and Dementia
Typical Age-Related Changes
Poor judgment and decision-making
Making a bad decision once in a while
Inability to manage a budget
Missing a monthly payment
Losing track of the date or the season
Forgetting which day it is and remembering it later
Difficulty having a conversation
Sometimes forgetting which word to use
Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them
Losing things from time to time
To help you evaluate any changes you've noticed in a loved one or yourself, the Alzheimer's Association has created a list of 10 Warning Signs and Symptoms.
Today, U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments are available for some people living with early Alzheimer's — offering real hope for many. But these treatments aren't cures, and they aren't right for everyone. That's why recognizing the warning signs matters: Early diagnosis gives you the best chance of qualifying for treatment and accessing care and support early on. If you or someone you love is having trouble completing familiar tasks, struggling to plan or solve problems, or pulling back from work and social activities, talk to a doctor — and know that you don't have to navigate it alone.
The Alzheimer's Association offers free support groups, education programs and care planning resources in communities nationwide, along with our free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). Visit alz.org to find what's available near you.
You don't have to face this alone. We know it can feel uncertain, even frightening, to bring up changes you've noticed — saying it out loud can make it feel more real. But we're here, ready to answer your questions and support you, whenever you need us.
Our list of 10 Warning Signs and Symptoms is just one resource we provide as part of our mission to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.
Together, we will remain steadfast in our fight to end Alzheimer's. Thank you for wanting to end this disease.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Edgerly, Ph.D.
Vice President, Care and Support
P.S. We're so grateful for your interest in the cause. Your partnership means the world to us and helps provide support and assistance to everyone in need, but we're still counting on you to keep our momentum going in the fight against Alzheimer's. Please consider making your first gift while it can go twice as far during our August in Action 2X Match to help provide care and support and accelerate critical research that brings us closer to a cure.
Your donation will strengthen our efforts to advance Alzheimer's care, support and research. From face-to-face support to online education programs and promising global research initiatives, your gift makes a difference in the lives of all those affected by Alzheimer's and other dementias in your community and across the world. Thank you for your continued support.
