A question about what the first signs of Alzheimer's are.

[rosedream]

If you are close to someone effected by Alzheimer's, looking back were there any signs that you now think were the first signs but didn't realise at the time ?

I'm concerned about my MIL.

She's not how she used to be. Starting to take things literally

Sometimes very emotional then another time lacking in it.

Likes weekly routine to stay the same. Stopped socialising.

Really out of sorts if taken somewhere unfamiliar such as an extended family member birthday meal.

I'm just concerned and trying to help , what little she'll let me.

ICouldBeSomebodyYouKnow I agree, get Power of Attorney arranged asap, everyone should have one really once they get to retirement age. But it's not true that you can't get it after diagnosis. You can, as long as the person has capacity to give it. A diagnosis does not remove capacity.

Hmmmbop - to be fit that's true, but it's a bit of a gamble! Best to do it early and not miss the boat.

I'm another who says sort POA asap.

But first signs we noticed were, repeat conversations. Lack of personal care one of those ladies who was always immaculate, lipstick miles from lips, hem down on coat. Getting confused by money and quantities as in asking the butcher for huge quantities of meat.

Dad's spatial awareness started to go, as in he couldn't straighten the eiderdown on the bed, it was always crooked no matter how he tried.

He began to lose a sense of direction and would get a bit disoriented in more unfamiliar areas, though he was fine in his village streets.

And he repeated his "stories" more than was usual.

Thank you again everyone. This has been so interesting and helpful.