It’s normal to forget where you’ve placed your keys, what you’ve walked into a room to grab, or what day that party is, but more regular memory loss can be scary as you age. It can be particularly concerning if you notice this memory loss in your older parents.
You know your loved ones best, but it can be helpful to arm yourself with knowledge about Alzheimer’s to determine if these symptoms of memory loss indicate something more serious. Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s are summarized as the 4A’s: amnesia, aphasia, apraxia, and agnosia.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to the brain shrinking (atrophy) and brain cells dying. It is the most common cause of dementia—a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral, and social skills that disrupts a person’s ability to function independently.
Amnesia
Amnesia in Alzheimer’s disease is more than just forgetting where you left your keys. It involves severe and progressive memory loss that starts with recent events and stretches back into the past. For caregivers, understanding the different stages of amnesia is crucial.
Two significant types of amnesia include retrograde amnesia, which is limited to a period before the development of Alzheimer’s or a head injury, and anterograde amnesia, which also presents afterwards and impairs the ability to make new memories.
In the early stages, your loved one might forget recent conversations or appointments but still remember events from years ago. As the disease progresses, they may forget significant life events, family members, or how to perform daily tasks. Practical strategies like maintaining a consistent routine, using visual aids, and keeping a memory journal can help manage these challenges.
Aphasia
Aphasia refers to the impairment of language abilities, impacting both speaking and understanding. Expressive and receptive forms impact someone’s ability to find the right words or causes them to say the right words incorrectly; resulting in an inability to understand and interpret language.
Initially, aphasia may present as difficulty finding the correct words or names, but it can also manifest as difficulty with:
- Repeating words or phrases accurately
- Initiating & spontaneous speech
- Understanding written language
- Comprehending the meaning of words
Over time, aphasia can escalate to complete loss of speech or comprehension. These symptoms can be particularly distressing for both the person with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
To cope with aphasia, use simple sentences, speak slowly, and offer nonverbal communication methods such as pictures or gestures. Patience and empathy make communication easier.
Apraxia
Apraxia is the inability to perform previously learned motor activities despite having the physical ability to do so. This symptom affects coordination and can make everyday tasks challenging.
Early signs of apraxia might include:
- Struggling to dress yourself (buttoning shirts or lacing shoes)
- Inability to perform simple tasks like brushing teeth or brushing hair
- Difficulty using utensils properly during meals
- Being unable to follow a sequence of steps to complete a task (like making a cup of tea)
- Challenges using simple tools correctly (e.g. pen, keys)
- Struggling with fine motor skills
- Increased instances of frustration or confusion during everyday tasks
To assist someone with apraxia, break down tasks into smaller steps, provide clear instructions, and use adaptive tools that simplify the process. Encouragement and support are vital in helping them maintain as much independence as possible.
Agnosia
Despite having functional sensory systems, agnosia is the inability to recognize objects, faces, sounds, or smells. Initially, agnosia may cause difficulties recognizing familiar objects or places, identifying smells, or understanding when their bladder is full. In advanced stages, it can lead to a complete inability to identify loved ones or even oneself in the mirror.
This symptom can be incredibly disorienting. Coping with agnosia involves creating a safe and familiar environment, using labels and signs around the home, and reassuring your loved one with verbal cues and positive reinforcement.
Do Memory Problems Always Mean Alzheimer’s Disease?
It’s crucial to understand that not all memory problems indicate Alzheimer’s. Normal aging can involve some level of forgetfulness, and other medical conditions like depression, thyroid issues, or vitamin deficiencies can also cause memory loss.
Understanding the 4 A’s of Alzheimer’s symptoms—amnesia, aphasia, apraxia, and agnosia—can equip family members with the knowledge needed to know when to consult a healthcare professional. If you notice any of these memory problems in a loved one, a doctor can provide a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s involves a comprehensive assessment that includes medical history, physical exams, neurological tests, and mental status evaluations. Brain imaging and blood tests may also rule out other conditions.
An accurate diagnosis is the first step in creating an effective care plan. It provides clarity and allows families to seek appropriate treatments and support services early on, which can significantly improve outcomes.
Inspired Living understands the difficulties that come with having a parent with Alzheimer’s, which is why we provide memory care as an option for our senior living community. Contact us today to see how we can help your loved one continue to get the most out of life.
