Alzheimer’s disease is one of several forms of dementia. Although dementia is often talked about as a blanket term, there are several different variants and each has its own signs and symptoms.

The Daily Express recently highlighted some of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, which is most often associated with memory loss.

The newspaper explained that Alzheimer’s typically affects the hippocampus, an area of the brain important in the functioning of memory and learning. It turns short-term memories into long-term memories and helps us to retrieve two types of memory: spatial relationship and declarative. Spatial relationship memories refer to how we learn routes, such as the way from our home to the local shops, while an example of a declarative memory is when someone memorises a speech.

Because Alzheimer’s affects the hippocampus, it can prevent people from turning short-term memories into new long-term memories. This is also why forgetfulness is a common early sign of Alzheimer’s.

The paper also shared information from the Alzheimer’s Society, which highlighted some of the most common challenges that those with Alzheimer’s face. However, it stressed that everyone’s experience of the disease is different.

Among some of the early signs of the condition that are associated with memory loss are forgetting the name of a friend, finding it difficult to remember words during a conversation, struggling to remember recent events or conversations, forgetting the route to somewhere they know, and forgetting appointments or significant dates.

Changes in mood are another sign that’s often reported among those in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. The charity stated: “They may become anxious, depressed or more easily annoyed. Many people lose interest in talking to people, or in activities and hobbies.”

The piece also recommended visiting your GP if you’re concerned about Alzheimer’s or are worried that you’re exhibiting any of the symptoms. If you are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, or indeed another form of dementia, there is a range of support available to you and your family, so don’t panic.

To read more about our dementia services, click here. We also have two specialist dementia care homes: Haviland House and Linfield House.

You can also get in touch with our friendly Customer Service Team on 01903 327327 or [email protected].