Alzheimer’s Warning Signs
October 23,2011 / By: Mark S. Eghrari, Estate Planning Attorney / Category: Incapacity Planning, Long Term CareIf you have elderly parents, you may sometimes wonder if momentary lapses of memory are a sign of a larger problem, like Alzheimer’s disease. It’s easy to ignore eccentric behavior or momentary lapses in judgment. But the sooner Alzheimer’s is diagnosed, the sooner possible treatment can be started, and the sooner long-term planning can start. What should you watch for?
- Difficulty finding the right words, or confusion over the meanings of words
- Lapses in memory
- Struggling to complete familiar or commonplace activities
- Dramatic changes in personality or moods
- Misplacing items
- Reduced judgment and reasoning skills
- Difficulty with abstract thinking or theoretical concepts
Some of these indicators may be subtle at first, and you may hesitate to step in out of concern over making them feel embarrassed or upset. Keep track of the signs, and if a pattern starts to appear, step in. Have a physician evaluate your loved one.
While the conversation may make both of you uncomfortable, ignoring the problem will be much worse. And take the opportunity to talk about making longer-term plans for handling financial matters, for estate planning, and for other practical considerations. Again, waiting is likely to be the worst thing either of you could do.
Mark S. Eghrari & Associates, PLLC is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.


