Alzheimer's

10 warning signs of dementia
What you should look out for.

Language
Impaired language functioning is called dysphasia. In the early stages the person has difficulty naming objects. Later on, other aspects of language functioning is also affected.

Motor functions
An inability to perform acquired motor functions is called apraxia. In the early stages the person may struggle with complex motor movements.

Personality changes
Personality changes occur in all people with Alzheimer's disease. The most common personality change is apathy, which is defined as a lack of interest and motivation.

Memory
Initially short-term memory is affected, but as the disease progresses, it will also include long-term memory.

Perceptual abilities
Impairment of perceptual abilities is called agnosia. The brain develops an inability to process information obtained through the senses.

Executive functions
Planning and organisation is often affected in the early stages of the illness.

Alzheimer's symptoms and signs
At first the only symptom may be mild forgetfulness. As the disease progresses, different aspects of brain functioning become impaired.