Spot the Signs: How Aging Traits in Loved Ones May Signal Alzheimer’s Disease

During his college years, Zelda Hill observed subtle shifts in his father's behavior. The man known for his attention to detail began to forget recent news, confuse dates, and lose his way in familiar surroundings.Previously, Hill had attributed memory loss in his grandparents to the natural aging process. However, he keenly recognized the behavioral changes in his father, prompting the family to seek professional input.The outcome was a diagnosis of dementia, later confirmed as Alzheimer’s disease, a diagnosis received while Hill's father was still in his 50s.Alzheimer’s, the predominant type of dementia, is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory and cognitive abilities. Currently, over 7 million Americans are diagnosed, a number projected to double by 2060.Family members, especially adult children, often notice early signs. Timely intervention can dramatically improve care options, making awareness of the difference between normal aging and Alzheimer’s critical.Recognizing behavioral changes early can enhance quality of life, emphasizing the need for education on this issue, especially within marginalized communities.

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