Major Alzheimer's Disease Warning Signs

Depression Or Apathy

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease that progressively damages the brain. Memory loss is the most well-known symptom, but when the illness begins to affect emotions, it's common for patients to express depression or apathy. Rather than presenting as uncontrollable sadness, this symptom more commonly looks like withdrawal. A patient with Alzheimer's disease might lose interest in their usual hobbies, work projects, sports, social life, or other activities that are important to them. They might also forget how to execute the motions of their hobbies, like a knitter forgetting which stitches make a blanket. They may also forget to follow television shows, sports, events, and other schedule-based events.

Sometimes the social avoidance is related to a feeling of shame or guilt about the forgetfulness. Loss of interest in things that usually stimulate someone is a good cause for medical evaluation, especially if they're elderly. Older individuals may feel occasional weariness toward their social lives, work, and families, but they won't withdraw consistently and completely.

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