Alzheimer's: Dr Chris discusses the early signs of condition
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Dementia refers to a group of symptoms associated with a progressive deterioration of brain function. And Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of this. It can impact memory, how a person thinks and other mental skills.
The disease tends to get worse over a period of time.
But the Alzheimer’s Association says there are 10 early “warning signs” that could signal someone has the condition.
Among them is a specific issue with vision.
The association explains how some people might have trouble making out colours and contrast.
It says: “For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s.
“This may lead to difficulty with balance or trouble reading.
“They may also have problems judging distance and determining colour or contrast, causing issues with driving.”
However, it clarifies that vision changes related to cataracts are just a “typical” age-related concern.
The group urges people to not “ignore” any warning signs of Alzheimer’s.
“It’s natural to feel uncertain or nervous about discussing these changes with others.
“Voicing worries about your own health might make them seem more ‘real’.
“Or, you may fear upsetting someone by sharing observations about changes in his or her abilities or behaviour.
“However, these are significant health concerns that should be evaluated by a doctor, and it’s important to take action to figure out what’s going on.”
The other nine warning signs of Alzheimer’s are:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgement
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality.
The exact cause of dementia is not yet known but there are a number of factors that can increase your risk.
These include:
- Increasing age
- A family history of the condition
- Untreated depression, although depression can also be one of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
- Lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease.
The disease is most common in people aged over 65.
Dementia affects around one in 14 people over the age of 64, and one in six over the age of 80.
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