1. Memory changes that disrupt daily life, such as forgetting important dates or events
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems, such as keeping track of bills
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks, such as driving to a known location
4. Confusion with time or place
5. Vision difficulties, such as problems reading, judging distance, or determining color or contrast
6. New problems understanding or expressing words when speaking or writing
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
8. Poor judgment, such as giving large amounts of money to strangers or not paying attention to personal grooming
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
10. Mood or personality changes, such as feeling confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious
How Is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed?
No simple test can diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, but this is an area of rapid development. New brain scans and lab tests to aid in early diagnosis may become available soon. Currently, to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease dementia, a neurologist or doctor will conduct a complete examination that may include:
- Asking questions about health and medical history
- Asking about changes in memory, behavior, or personality
- Conducting tests of memory, problem solving, attention, and language
- Performing tests to rule out other possible causes
- Talking with family members or caregivers
For more information, visit the American Academy of Neurology for more information about a variety of Neurological Diseases.