Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, learning, and everyday activities. Although it is more common in older adults, the changes associated with the disease can begin years before a diagnosis.
Early symptoms may appear gradually, sometimes years before Alzheimer’s is diagnosed. However, memory problems alone do not mean someone has Alzheimer’s. Stress, poor sleep, depression, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, and certain medications can also affect memory.
7 early warning signs of Alzheimer’s
Based on guidance from the US National Institute on Aging.
National Institute on Aging
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1. Frequent memory loss
Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or conversations repeatedly, rather than occasionally forgetting something.
2. Repeating questions
Asking the same question several times because the answer was forgotten.
3. Difficulty with familiar tasks
Struggling with everyday activities that were previously easy, such as preparing a familiar recipe or managing routine payments.
4. Trouble finding words
Having difficulty following conversations, naming familiar objects, or expressing thoughts clearly.
5. Confusion about time and place
Losing track of dates, becoming confused about familiar surroundings, or getting lost in places the person knows well.
6. Poor judgment and decision-making
Finding it increasingly difficult to solve problems, manage money, or make decisions that were previously straightforward.
7. Changes in mood or personality
Developing unusual anxiety, irritability, suspicion, or withdrawing from social activities. These changes may occur alongside memory and thinking difficulties.
National Institute on Aging
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Why can symptoms appear years earlier?
Alzheimer’s-related changes in the brain, including the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, can begin a decade or more before noticeable memory and thinking problems develop. However, not everyone with these brain changes develops dementia, and the exact timing varies between individuals.
National Institute on Aging
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Normal forgetfulness vs. a possible warning sign
| Normal forgetfulness | Possible warning sign |
|---|---|
| Occasionally forgetting a name but remembering it later | Frequently forgetting familiar names or recent conversations |
| Misplacing keys and finding them after searching | Regularly putting things in unusual places and being unable to retrace steps |
| Occasionally needing reminders | Increasing difficulty managing familiar daily activities |
What should you do?
- Consult a doctor if memory or thinking problems are persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily life.
- Get adequate sleep, stay physically active, eat a balanced diet, and manage blood pressure and diabetes.
- Avoid self-diagnosing: several treatable conditions can cause similar symptoms.
- Seek urgent medical help if confusion develops suddenly, particularly with weakness, facial drooping, or difficulty speaking, because this may indicate a stroke.
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The key message: Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of ageing. Recognising changes early can help people get an appropriate assessment, explore available treatments, and plan for the future.
