Early Signs of Alzheimer’s You Shouldn’t Ignore

Many people dismiss forgetfulness as a normal part of ageing, but when memory lapses begin to disrupt daily routines, they may point to something more serious. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia worldwide, affects millions each year. As Nigeria’s elderly population continues to grow, recognising the early signs is becoming more important for families who want to provide timely care and support.

Persistent Forgetfulness

Misplacing household items is normal. Concern arises when someone repeatedly forgets important dates, asks for the same information several times, or struggles to recall events that just happened.

Difficulty With Familiar Tasks

Cooking a well-known meal, managing household finances, or following the steps of a regular chore can suddenly feel confusing. These are not new challenges but tasks that used to be second nature.

Disorientation With Time and Place

People may lose track of dates, seasons, or where they are. In some cases, they may think they are in a different year or feel lost in a familiar environment.

Language and Communication Problems

Alzheimer’s can affect speech. A person might struggle to find the right words, lose track of conversations, or repeat the same questions without realising. Over time, this makes social interaction increasingly difficult.

Poor Judgment

Unusual decision-making can be another early warning. Examples include giving away large amounts of money, neglecting self-care, or showing a lack of awareness in situations that once seemed routine.

Withdrawal From Social Life

When following conversations becomes difficult, some people begin to avoid gatherings, hobbies, or close friends. This withdrawal is sometimes misunderstood as depression or shyness.

Mood and Personality Changes

Sudden irritability, suspicion, or a loss of interest in long-enjoyed activities may be linked to changes in the brain, not simply “bad moods.”

Medical experts stress that these signs alone do not confirm Alzheimer’s. However, they are strong reasons to seek evaluation by a doctor. In Nigeria, where many people delay health checks until symptoms worsen, spotting these changes early is critical. While there is no cure yet, recognising the warning signs promptly allows for treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and stronger family support. These steps that can greatly improve quality of life.