The difference between symptoms of younger-onset Alzheimer’s, as opposed to a diagnosis in the later years (1:05), are normally more subtle. Typically, the earliest indicator of Alzheimer’s at a younger age is behavior. One may become more apathetic and begin to have issues with things such as word finding and speech patterns. Symptoms at all ages are unpredictable, and can always vary from person to person. It’s important to be aware and knowledgeable of all possible warning signs.

Not only can this disease affect the patient and their family, but their friends around them too. It can be emotionally challenging to go through this time with a close friend (2:57), but it is crucial to make them aware that you are with them on this journey. Remember to remain connected and continue to play that important role in your friend’s life.

Is it normal forgetfulness or could it be Alzheimer’s? (6:55) make sure that you can distinguish the difference between sometimes and all the time, which is imperative when thinking about normal age-related forgetfulness or something more. Misplacing things, forgetting appointments or dates, and losing track of time are all things that can happen to anyone. But when those occurrences go from happening sometimes, to happening all the time, that is when you should become more mindful of them in the long run. 

Everyone’s memory loss journey is different. Whether it is you, personally, or a loved one, the best way to face an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is to prepare yourself. Every step of this journey can be made easier when you and your loved ones are informed, empowering you to take the right steps in the areas of emotion, relationships, and medications. 

Episode resources: 

• Top 4 Questions about Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
• Alzheimer’s Association checklist: Know the 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s and About Younger-Onset 
• Infographic: What’s next after a dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis?
• 2017 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts & Figures 
• Validation Method

Future episodes:
Have a question or topic you’d like to see covered in a future episode? Send us an email! Like what you hear? We’d love for you to leave a review on iTunes to help bring this resource to more families.