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5 things to pay attention to when it comes to memory loss

Author: Virginia Cunningham
Published: Nov 1 2013

From physical ailments to alterations in overall appearance, the body goes through some pretty profound changes as it ages. Of all of these changes, however, memory loss is the most serious – and the most troubling. From not being able to recall basic facts or the inability to identify people and places, memory loss is an affliction that often plagues the elderly. If you do start to notice changes in your memory or the memory of a loved one, one specific affliction might come to mind – Alzheimer’s.

Memory Loss 1

Alzheimer’s is a disease that affects the brain’s ability to remember, recall, rationalize, reason, and think on a whole. While being a little forgetful is normal and expected as an individual ages, if you are worried about Alzheimer’s, there are signs and symptoms commonly associated with this disease.

Being aware of these signs and symptoms can help you identify whether or not this condition is a possibility, enabling you to get proper treatment. Read on to find out about five signs of memory loss.

Inability to recall common knowledge.

People with Alzheimer’s have difficulty recalling common knowledge. This can include forgetting information that was recently learned, as well long-term knowledge. A person might exhibit a constant inability to retain facts that they have just learned (doctor’s appointments, phone numbers, etc), and they may also forget the names of people they have known for a long time.

Losing track of time and place.

It is not uncommon for someone with Alzheimer’s to forget time and place. The person may forget what time of the day it is, or they may not be able to process an event or information if it does not occur immediately. They may also suddenly forget where they are and how they got there.

Struggling with everyday tasks.

Driving to the grocery store to get milk and eggs seems like a simple task for a person with a normally functioning memory, but for someone with Alzheimer’s, something as simple as this can be a challenge. People with Alzheimer’s often have trouble completing everyday tasks, such as paying bills, taking medications, or doing the laundry.

Easily misplacing things.

Even people with great memories can have a sudden lapse and forget where they put their car keys or their sunglasses from time to time. However, a person with Alzheimer’s misplaces things on a regular basis. They may place bread in the oven instead of on the countertop, for example, and not remember that they did this.

Lack of interest.

Memory Loss 2

A person who is showing signs of Alzheimer’s may start lacking interest in doing things that he once enjoyed. Social activities sometimes become a burden, and even hobbies don’t hold the same enjoyment that they once did. Your loved one with Alzheimer’s may not even participate in socializing with friends and family, simply because at some point, it is too difficult to keep up with the conversations going on around when memory loss becomes too severe.

These are some of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s. If someone you know is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms, you should seek the help of a medical professional as soon as possible. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, early detection gives you a better grasp on what is taking place, enabling you to feel more supported as you care for your loved one. Knowing what is happening early on may even help the afflicted person retain their normal way of life as long as possible.

Virginia Cunningham is a freelance writer in Southern California. As a health writer, she enjoys researching and writing about common health problems, and has experience writing within the field of elderly care.

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