What is an early sign of Alzheimer's disease?

Memory changes and planning difficulties are recognized as early signs of Alzheimer's disease. Individuals in the early stages often experience challenges with short-term memory, such as forgetting recent conversations or misplacing items. They may also struggle with planning and organizing tasks, which can manifest as difficulty in following recipes or managing finances. These cognitive impairments are typically among the first symptoms that arise, making them critical for early detection and intervention, which can be crucial for effective management and support.

In contrast, while visual and auditory processing issues, along with emotional disturbances, can occur in individuals with Alzheimer's at various stages, they are not typically seen as the earliest indicators of the disease. Memory and planning difficulties serve as significant red flags that caregivers and healthcare providers look for when assessing for Alzheimer's in its initial stages.