10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Memory loss is one of the most common and troubling signs of Alzheimer’s. People may forget names, appointments, or even where they live. Recent information tends to disappear quickly, and repeated questions are common. They often don’t remember that they’ve already asked the same thing several times, which can be frustrating for loved ones.

Difficulty with planning and organizing is another early warning sign. Managing bills, preparing meals, or keeping track of time may become confusing. People may struggle with multitasking or following a sequence of steps, like baking or scheduling a visit. Concentration tends to decline, making even simple routines feel overwhelming.

Daily tasks become harder to complete. People may forget how to use a microwave, pay at the store, or drive safely. Errors in money handling are common, including missed payments or losing large sums. They might need help using common household items, despite knowing how to use them before.

Confusion with time and place often leads to getting lost. A person may forget where they are or how they got there. Even familiar locations like their own street or local shops become unfamiliar. Time becomes distorted — they may not know the date, year, or time of day.

People may begin to struggle with understanding what they see. They may have trouble judging distances or recognizing objects and faces. Some confuse their reflection with another person. While vision changes can be age-related, in Alzheimer’s it often involves perception and spatial awareness, not just eyesight itself.

Language and communication often become difficult. Finding the right words, following a conversation, or naming objects may be hard. People may stop in the middle of speaking, unsure how to continue. They might repeat themselves often or call familiar items by the wrong name without realizing it.

Losing and misplacing items is very common. People may leave their phone in the fridge or put keys in strange places. Often, they can't retrace their steps to find things. In some cases, they may accuse others of stealing because they truly don’t remember moving the item.

Poor judgment becomes more noticeable. A person may give away large sums of money, fall for scams, or wear clothes inappropriate for the weather. Grooming and hygiene may decline without awareness. These behaviors can create safety risks for both the individual and those around them.

Withdrawal from work or social activities is common. People may stop doing hobbies, visiting friends, or going to clubs they used to enjoy. They might struggle to follow games, remember rules, or feel embarrassed by memory lapses. Everyday activities start to feel stressful and exhausting.

Mood and personality may change suddenly. Someone may become easily upset, anxious, fearful, or suspicious. They might cry or laugh unexpectedly and react strongly to minor changes in routine. Crowded places and unfamiliar settings often increase frustration, leading to emotional outbursts or withdrawal.