Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s That Families Should Know

Recognizing the signs early can lead to better care and peace of mind

When a loved one begins to act differently—forgetting familiar names, repeating questions, or struggling with daily tasks—it’s natural to wonder: Is this just aging, or something more?

While occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of getting older, Alzheimer’s disease is not. It’s a progressive form of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior—and early detection can make a big difference.

At Homewatch CareGivers of Coral Gables, serving all of Miami, we’ve supported many families who noticed small changes before a formal diagnosis. Knowing the early signs of Alzheimer’s helps you take action, seek medical guidance, and begin building a support plan that prioritizes safety, dignity, and independence.

Why Early Detection Matters

Catching Alzheimer’s early allows families to:

• Start treatment sooner to manage symptoms
• Plan ahead for care, finances, and living arrangements
• Involve the person in important decisions while they’re still able
• Access support services and caregiver resources earlier

It also helps avoid crises later on—such as wandering, unsafe behaviors, or emotional distress—by preparing with compassion and structure.

A Real-Life Story: When Small Signs Add Up

Lourdes, 68, had always been sharp and independent. But her daughter, Clara, started noticing subtle changes—missed appointments, repeated stories, and confusion with simple tasks like using the microwave.

At first, Clara brushed it off as stress or normal aging. But over time, the forgetfulness became more frequent, and Lourdes began to withdraw from social activities she once loved. With guidance from her doctor and the support of a Homewatch CareGivers memory care specialist, the family was able to receive an early diagnosis and develop a care plan that allowed Lourdes to remain at home, safely and comfortably.

10 Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s to Watch For

Alzheimer’s affects everyone differently, but these are the most common early signs families should be aware of:

1. Memory Loss That Disrupts Daily Life

Frequently forgetting important dates, asking the same questions repeatedly, or relying heavily on notes or family members for things they used to handle on their own.

2. Difficulty with Planning or Problem-Solving

Struggling to follow familiar recipes, manage a budget, or keep track of bills can signal cognitive changes.

3. Challenges Completing Familiar Tasks

Having trouble driving to a familiar place, operating the TV remote, or completing routine chores.

4. Confusion with Time or Place

Losing track of seasons, dates, or where they are. They may forget how they got somewhere or believe they’re living in a past time.

5. Trouble Understanding Visual Images or Spatial Relationships

Difficulty reading, judging distance, or distinguishing contrast—especially dangerous while driving.

6. Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing

Pausing mid-conversation, repeating themselves, or struggling to find the right word. They might call objects by the wrong name (e.g., a "watch" as a "hand clock").

7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps

Putting things in unusual places (like keys in the freezer), then accusing others of stealing when they can’t find them.

8. Poor Judgment or Decision-Making

Giving away large sums of money to telemarketers, neglecting personal hygiene, or making unsafe choices.

9. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities

Avoiding hobbies, family gatherings, or community events they once enjoyed—often due to embarrassment or confusion.

10. Changes in Mood or Personality

Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. A person may get upset easily, especially in unfamiliar environments.

What To Do If You Notice These Signs

If you notice one or more of these signs in a loved one, don’t panic—but don’t ignore them either.

Here's what you can do:

• Start a conversation in a gentle, non-judgmental way
• Document what you’re seeing—specific examples help physicians evaluate accurately
• Schedule a check-up with a primary care provider or neurologist
• Reach out for support—you don’t have to do this alone

At Homewatch CareGivers, we offer free consultations to help families talk through concerns, assess needs, and understand what kind of support might be helpful—whether it’s companion care, respite care, or specialized dementia support.

How Homewatch CareGivers Supports Seniors with Alzheimer’s in Miami

We understand that Alzheimer’s doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed—it affects the entire family. Our caregivers are trained in dementia care best practices and can help with:

• Creating structured daily routines to reduce anxiety
• Providing safety supervision and fall prevention
• Offering stimulating, memory-friendly activities
• Supporting with personal care and companionship

• Giving family caregivers time to rest through respite care

Whether your loved one is in the early stages or further along in their journey, we build personalized care plans to help them live with dignity and purpose at home.

You Don’t Have to Wait for a Diagnosis to Ask for Help

If you’ve noticed changes in your loved one’s memory, behavior, or communication, trust your instincts. Early signs of Alzheimer’s are not always obvious—but they are important.

📞 Call Homewatch CareGivers of Coral Gables today to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation. We proudly support families across Miami with the information, care, and compassion they need to move forward with confidence.