10 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s — Page 10

Losing a sense of direction

People vary a great deal in how easily they can orient themselves in space. But if you experience a big drop in your ability to get around in familiar locations, see a doctor. People with Alzheimer’s can fail to recognize once-familiar landmarks and forget their normal routes. They also have a harder time following instructions.

What you can do

No one symptom is proof of a disease. All of these 10 early signs of Alzheimer’s may also not show up in each person. If you see three or more signs, speak to a doctor and consider buying long-term care insurance or making other changes in case you or someone you love will need care.

Even younger people need to know at least some of these 10 early signs of Alzheimer’s because the disease can begin as young as your 30s, 40s, or 50s. With an early diagnosis and treatment, its progress can be slowed down.

Prevention steps you can take include:

• Keep your mind active with word puzzles, challenging games, and reading.
• Stay socially engaged.
• Aim for a minimum of a half hour of exercise five days a week.
• Stop smoking.
• Eat more vegetables and fruits.
• Avoid foods that are crispy from high heat, especially fatty meat.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Bone Loss May Be an Early Sign of Alzheimer’s Disease

<< Previous