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September is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and the challenges faced by people living with dementia and their families. Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease and the most common cause of dementia. Understanding the early signs can help individuals and families seek medical advice and support at an earlier stage.
Recognizing the Early Signs
Alzheimer’s can affect people differently, but some common warning signs include:
- Memory loss that affects daily life – Frequently forgetting recently learned information or repeatedly asking the same questions.
- Difficulty with familiar tasks – Struggling with activities that were previously routine.
- Problems with planning or problem-solving – Increasing difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or managing everyday tasks.
- Confusion about time or place – Becoming unsure about dates, locations, or familiar surroundings.
- Difficulty finding words – Having trouble following or participating in conversations.
- Changes in mood or behaviour – Becoming unusually anxious, withdrawn, suspicious, or confused.
These changes do not necessarily mean that a person has Alzheimer’s. Other health conditions can also cause memory and thinking problems. A doctor can assess the symptoms and determine whether further evaluation is needed.
Is Alzheimer’s a Normal Part of Ageing?
No. While the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia increases with age, significant memory or cognitive decline that interferes with daily life is not considered a normal part of ageing. Recognizing noticeable changes and discussing them with a doctor can help identify possible causes early.
Supporting Brain Health
There is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, but healthy lifestyle habits may help support brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, staying socially connected, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol are important steps.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you or someone you care about experiences persistent or worsening changes in memory, thinking, communication, or daily activities, don’t simply dismiss them as part of ageing. Speaking with a doctor can help identify possible causes and provide appropriate guidance and support.
Awareness Can Make a Difference
This September, take a moment to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and encourage your loved ones to pay attention to changes in memory and thinking. Early recognition, medical assessment, and appropriate support can make a meaningful difference to individuals and their families.