Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, affecting 5.3 million Americans, according to the Alzheimer's Association. The condition has no cure and is a progressive brain disease affecting memory, critical thinking and activities of daily living. It is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Recognizing and detecting Alzheimer's disease early allows for treatment and future planning to begin. Early Alzheimer's may be detected during a doctor's interview or a medical test. Many people are not diagnosed with Alzheimer's until the middle stages of the disease--often two to four years after initial onset.
Forgetfullness
Forgetting recently learned information such as appointments, important events or directions is an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. A person may feel the need to write notes to herself to remember specific information. Information may be forgotten but recalled later. Some people may rely on spouses and other family members to remember information.
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Skills
A person may have difficulty solving simple problems such as balancing a checkbook, following a recipe or performing tasks at work. Tasks still may be completed but will take longer amounts of time and concentration. The inability to complete simple, common tasks such as working the microwave, driving to a regularly visited location or knowing the rules of a commonly played game are also signs of early Alzheimer's.
Time and Place
A person may not be aware of time, including the time of day, day of the week or even the year. Someone with early Alzheimer's may forget it is winter time and go outside dressed inappropriately. Being confused about where he is or how he got to a certain location also is common.
Vision Changes
A person with early Alzheimer's may pass by a mirror and believe he is looking at someone else--perhaps an older brother or even a stranger. Spatial distance is difficult to measure: a person may try to reach for an item but be too far away. The person may not be able to differentiate dark, muted colors or contrast. One of most common vision complaints of early Alzheimer's is trouble reading, such as skipping words or lines. A person also may be unable to recognize familiar faces or pick out individual objects in a group, according to Nature.com.
Changes in Personality
A person may begin to recognize changes and withdraw socially or isolate herself due to embarrassment. Removal from hobbies, sports, work and family obligations is common, the Alzheimer's Association explains. Mood changes also may be present. A person can experience episodes of anxiety, fear, suspicion and depression.
