I have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. When I tell people this, they are very surprised. I look normal, I perform most daily tasks without a problem, and function normally for the most part. However, I woke at 4:30 am this morning for no reason. My legs have a buzzing sensation right now for no particular reason. I can no longer drive because my reasoning and the executive functions involved are compromised. If I am not reminded to drink liquids I get dehydrated. Appearing normal is still easy, as long as I am in my element, not upset or frustrated with something, and things are going well. (And I was going to write smoothly there but forgot how to spell it for a moment.) Now my hands have started buzzing as well, but it is early in the morning and I haven’t had much to eat or drink yet. So to answer the second part of the question - you can’t necessarily unless you know what to ask or look for.
The early symptoms are forgetfulness, poor sleep habits, poor eating habits, changes in routines, problems with communication - which I have skipped, possibly because one of my degrees is in communications - difficulty concentrating, being confused about time and space - I have to look at my watch or computer to know what time and date it is, and mood changes - I have struggled with this, but have mostly controlled it by stopping and thinking before saying or acting out because of this - it is so easy to be angry, but a slow down with some deep breathing really helps. (I initially was going to write this as slowing down, but momentarily forgot how to spell it. This is what happens.) Does this help paint the picture? I have tried to make it my job to inform people about my journey into Alzheimer’s, so have started a Reddit stack about this - as long as I can. p.s. My wife and I have moved into a house with my son and his fiance - and part of the reason for this is so they can contribute to helping me through this journey. And now - it is time for my morning banana - Adious.
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