Alzheimer’s and Early Diagnosis.

October 21, 2025

Understanding the signs of Alzheimer’s early on can make a difference.

Understanding the signs of Alzheimer’s early on can help families take action and support their loved ones with more confidence and less fear.

The difference between Dementia and Alzheimer’s is that Alzheimer’s is a disease in the brain, whereas dementia is a collection of symptoms. Alzheimer’s disease causes cognitive decline, eventually leading to dementia. It’s the most common reason why people get dementia.

The most well-known symptom of Alzheimer’sis memory loss, especially trouble with short-term memory. We all forget things now and then—where we left our phone, why we walked into a room—but with Alzheimer’s, it’s more than everyday forgetfulness. A person might ask the same question multiple times, forget important dates, or rely heavily on notes and reminders for basic things they used to remember easily.

You might also notice changes in problem-solving skills. For example, someone who used to pay the bills or follow complex recipes might suddenly struggle with those tasks. Planning events, handling money, or even remembering the rules of a favourite card game can become frustrating.

Another red flag is confusion about time or place. People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates or even forget where they are. A trip to the grocery store might turn into a disorienting experience, and they may find themselves unsure how they got somewhere—or how to get home.

Communication can also become tricky. A person might pause mid-conversation, forget words, or repeat themselves without realizing it. Conversations may drift off, or they might call common objects by the wrong names. It’s not about being forgetful in the usual way—it’s like the brain loses its shortcuts and starts fumbling for connections that used to come naturally.

Beyond thinking and memory, Alzheimer’s often brings changes in mood and behaviour. Someone who was social and outgoing might suddenly withdraw. They might get irritated more easily, seem anxious for no clear reason, or show signs of depression. In some cases, people become suspicious or confused about what’s going on around them, sometimes thinking others are hiding things or playing tricks on them—even if they’re not.

As the disease progresses, basic daily tasks start to feel overwhelming. Things like dressing, showering, and eating may require help. Familiar routines can become confusing, and people may start to rely more on others for support. Even recognizing close family members might become difficult down the road.

Still, amid all this, it’s important to remember that a person with Alzheimer’s is still themselves. They might need more patience, more structure, and a bit more help—but they’re still the same person at their core, full of stories, personality, and emotion. And they’re often far more aware than people think.

Recognizing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s early allows families to make plans, find the right support, and make the most of their time together. It’s not about panic—it’s about preparation. And while the road can be challenging, it can also be filled with love, humour, and meaningful moments that matter.

Our article Alzheimer’s and what you can do will highlight what you can do if someone has Alzheimer’s.