Alzheimer’s disease has ten recognized warning signs:

  1. Memory loss that affects day-to-day function
  2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks
  3. Problems with language
  4. Disorientation of time and place
  5. Poor or decreased judgment
  6. Problems with abstract thinking
  7. Misplacing things
  8. Changes in mood and behaviour
  9. Changes in personality
  10. Loss of initiative

Learn more about the warning signs...

One of the challenges in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease is that in its very earliest stages, the problems associated with forgetfulness are identical to normal aging.

Many people experience problems with memory as they age and do not go on to develop Alzheimer’s disease. It is only when other cognitive problems start to show up that there is cause for concern. Unfortunately, at that point, the disease is likely to be well established in the brain.

There is a recognized middle stage between what would be considered age-related decline and a more serious form of impairment called Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

Although this group shows signs of memory impairment, some people do not go on to develop Alzheimer’s disease. This indicates that it could be critical to carefully look after brain health throughout life, and to attend to mental fitness and agility when even a slight decline in memory is noticed.

Physicians use a number of tests to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia - none of which can tell for certain if Alzheimer’s disease is present in the brain. The tests range from reviewing the symptoms that are being noticed, or completing a written test in a doctor’s office, through to more specialized testing such as scanning the brain to test for areas of unusual activity.

In most cases, the low-tech tests provide health professionals with a fairly accurate picture that can help to distinguish between normal aging and dementia. MRI tests are not commonly used because the picture generated does not show brain activity.

It’s important to note that all testing for Alzheimer’s disease should be administered and interpreted by a recognized health professional and people should be wary of other kinds of ‘testing’ that they may be offered.

Learn more about getting a diagnosis...

Researchers are working hard to resolve the challenges of early detection - particularly with regards to MCI because in order for treatments to be successful, it is important that the disease is recognized as early as possible. However, there is a gap in our knowledge in this area and Alzheimer Societies across Canada support research to further our knowledge.
 

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