Alzheimer's at a Young Age May Occur, Watch for Signs

Alzheimer's is a disease that is associated with memory disorders, accompanied by a decrease in other mental functions. Although the risk of Alzheimer's is generally increasing at the age of over 65 years, Alzheimer's at a young age may occur. Alzheimer's at a young age means that this disease occurs in people aged 40-50 years. In fact, some are 30 years old. Unfortunately, medical experts often have difficulty diagnosing Alzheimer's at a young age. Because, the symptoms often seem just like people who are stressed due to the pressure of daily activities.

How did it happen?

There are several causes that make a person under 65 years can experience Alzheimer's. One of them is due to a buildup of proteins in the brain called amyloid. This condition can affect the way of thinking, which then leads to Alzheimer's. Another cause is because of mutations in genes inherited from parents. People whose parents or grandparents suffer from Alzheimer's, tend to experience the same condition. In fact, medical experts also do not fully know about the causes of Alzheimer's at a young age. To be sure, still needs further research.

Recognize the Signs of Alzheimer's at a Young Age

Then, how do you know if you have the disease early? Initial symptoms that usually appear are confusion and decreased ability to remember. For clarity, here are the signs of Alzheimer's:

• Memory loss

Memory loss is characterized by loss of memory function or decreased mental abilities due to Alzheimer's initially marked by memory loss. You will start to experience the rather severe forgetfulness. You may not be able to remember important events or dates that you have never forgotten. This loss of memory will affect daily activities.

• Difficult to find the right words

If Alzheimer's occurs at a young age, you will likely have difficulty when searching for the right words, while speaking. Although you can talk as usual, but suddenly you may lose or have trouble finding the words you want to convey.

• Difficult to remember time and place, and difficult to make decisions

The next sign when you have Alzheimer's at a young age is that it's hard to remember the time, let alone make plans in the future. You will also have difficulty remembering the place. Eventually you will be confused and feel you don't understand the reason for being in that place. You will easily get lost, forgetting how you got to a place and why you are there.

• Difficult to do work or routine tasks

Another sign of Alzheimer's at a young age is difficulty in doing the work that you normally do everyday. For example driving, whereas previously you were classified as a reliable driver. So it is with other easier daily work.

• Experiencing mood swings

Your mood or mood can change if you have Alzheimer's at a young age. Mood changes such as fear, anxiety, confusion, and even depression. Worse, these mood swings are extreme and may affect personality.

Respond Appropriately

Experiencing Alzheimer's at a young age can pose challenges, especially if you are still in a productive age. To keep your life comfortable, you should address this condition in the following ways:

• At work, find out about the possibility of moving to a position that better suits your limitations, then talk with your boss.
• If you feel that the work is too heavy, think about reducing workload or reducing work hours.
• Talk about your condition to your partner. Do not hesitate to ask for help, if needed.
• Keep doing various activities with your partner, according to your ability. Discover and also enjoy new activities with your partner so that you stay excited.
• If you already have children, also discuss the condition of Alzheimer's so that children understand.
• Keep doing activities with children and family.

Alzheimer's at a young age may occur. If you begin to experience these signs, see a doctor immediately to make sure. Thus, you can determine the right handling steps early.