While the terms “dementia” and “Alzheimer’s” are often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences. 

Dementia is the umbrella term for symptoms affecting memory, thinking or reasoning. Alzheimer’s, the most common cause of dementia, is a progressive brain disease that impairs the ability to complete familiar tasks, remember important dates and follow conversations. It accounts for 60-80% of all dementia cases.

 In 2023, 6.7 million Americans had Alzheimer’s, a number projected to reach 14 million by 2060.

It can be difficult to distinguish between normal age-related changes and the early signs of dementia, but memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a typical part of aging. 

The Alzheimer’s Association has identified several warning signs that may signal the onset of the disease:

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life

Forgetting recently learned information, asking the same questions repeatedly or relying on family members for tasks previously managed independently.

Normal aging: Occasionally forgetting names or appointments but remembering them later.

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems

Difficulty following a plan or working with numbers. They might have trouble following a familiar recipe, keeping track of monthly bills or concentrating for extended periods of time.
Normal aging: Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks

Struggling with daily tasks like driving to known locations or remembering the rules of a favorite game.
Normal aging: Needing occasional help with things like operating electronics or recording a TV show.

4. Confusion with time or place 

Losing track of dates, seasons or where they are.
Normal aging: Forgetting the day of the week but remembering later.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

Difficulty reading, judging distances or distinguishing color and contrast, leading to problems with driving.
Normal aging: Vision changes related to cataracts.

6. New problems with speaking or writing 

Stopping in the middle of a conversation, struggling with vocabulary or repeating oneself, or calling objects by the wrong names (e.g., calling a “watch” a “hand-clock”).
Normal aging: Occasionally having trouble finding the right word.

7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them. They may accuse others of stealing, especially as the disease progresses.
Normal aging: Misplacing things from time to time and retracing steps to find them.

8. Decreased or poor judgment

Making poor financial decisions, neglecting hygiene or exhibiting uncharacteristic behaviors.
Normal aging: Making a bad decision once in a while.

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities

Avoiding social interactions or hobbies due to difficulty following conversations or activities.

Normal aging: Occasionally feeling disinterested in work or social obligations.

10. Changes in mood and personality

Experiencing increased confusion, suspicion, depression, anxiety or irritability, especially in new or unfamiliar environments.
Normal aging: Developing specific routines and becoming irritated when they are disrupted.

Stay ahead of Alzheimer’s with early detection. If you notice changes in yourself or a loved one, consult a doctor right away. 

BriAnn Hill is with the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Kentucky & Southern Indiana Chapter. This article is provided courtesy of the National Council on Aging (NCOA.org).