Alzheimer's is a form of a dementing illness. You may have heard the term "dementia." Memory loss is an indication that a loved one may have dementia. Dementia, however, is not a disease. It is a group of symptoms such as memory loss that is generally the result of certain diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and Parkinson's Disease.
Alzheimer's originated in 1906 from a German neurologist named Aloïs Alzheimer. He described that memory loss was due to the plaques and tangles in the brain.
Gradual Memory Loss: Your loved one may have begun forgetting where he placed his keys or that he had an appointment.
Difficulty in Learning: Your loved one may have troubles pronouncing words or writing words. Also, he may have a difficult time in learning new tasks, such as gardening and doing crafts.
Difficulty Performing Routine Tasks: Your loved one may be having problems when brushing his teeth, bathing himself, or dressing himself.
Confusion with Place and/or Time: Your loved one may not know what time or day it is.
Mood or Behavior Changes: Your loved one might change behaviors, such as become more demanding or become more silent.
*NOTE*
These signs and symptoms are used as a guide for caregivers to see whether or not their loved ones are at risk. I would like to say that when a person changes medications or mixes new medications with old ones, he might experience slight memory loss, dizziness, and even hallucinations. If this sounds like your loved one, speak to his physician about the medications and possibly the chances of getting an assessment for your loved one.
Wandering: Loved ones in the later stages of Alzheimer's may wake up in the middle of the night and wander around the house. They may be looking for the washroom or they may be searching for someone.
Hallucinations or Delusions: Loved ones may see and/or hear things that you do not see or hear. Keep in mind that these "visions" are very real to your loved ones. Some may be frightening while others may be cheerful.
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