What Is Alzheimer’s Disease? How To Spot It In My Loved One?

If you’re concerned that someone you love may be showing signs of Alzheimer’s, this guide can help you understand what to look for — and more importantly, how to help someone with Alzheimer’s with patience, compassion, and support.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and a progressive neurodegenerative disease that gradually affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. While it is often associated with ageing, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of getting older.

Recognising the early symptoms can make a significant difference in how families plan and respond.

If you’re concerned that someone you love may be showing signs of Alzheimer’s, this guide can help you understand what to look for — and more importantly, how to help someone with Alzheimer’s with patience, compassion, and support.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s is a chronic condition that affects the brain’s ability to function properly over time. It typically starts with mild memory loss but eventually impacts one’s ability to carry out everyday tasks, communicate, and maintain relationships.

As a neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer’s leads to the gradual breakdown and death of brain cells. This results in a steady decline in cognitive abilities and overall functioning. The disease progresses through stages — from early signs like forgetfulness to more advanced symptoms such as confusion, mood swings, and personality changes.

Early signs to look out for in your loved one

While occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of ageing, more persistent issues may signal something more serious. Here are some common early signs of Alzheimer’s:

Early Sign	What You Might Notice
Memory loss	Frequently forgetting names, dates, or recent conversations
Difficulty planning or problem-solving	Trouble following recipes, managing bills, or completing tasks
Confusion with time or place	Getting lost in familiar settings or confusing days and seasons
Trouble with visual images	Problems reading, judging distances, or identifying objects
Misplacing items	Placing things in unusual spots and being unable to retrace steps
Mood and personality changes	Sudden anxiety, confusion, withdrawal, or increased irritability

If you’ve seen a combination of these signs in a parent, spouse, or relative, it may be time to speak to a healthcare professional for an assessment.

5 Ways to help someone with Alzheimer’s

How do you help someone with Alzheimer’s? Supporting a loved one with Alzheimer’s requires patience, understanding, and practical strategies. Here are some ways you can make a difference:

1. Establish a daily routine

Familiarity provides comfort. Set regular times for meals, sleep, and activities to reduce anxiety and confusion.

2. Communicate with compassion

Speak slowly and clearly. Use simple sentences and maintain eye contact. Don’t argue or correct — instead, redirect or reassure gently.

3. Ensure a safe environment

Install grab bars, remove trip hazards, and label important areas in the house. A familiar and well-organised space reduces stress.

4. Encourage mental and social engagement

Simple activities like listening to music, folding laundry, or reminiscing over photo albums can offer comfort and stimulation.

5. Seek professional support

If the condition progresses, becoming too challenging to manage at home, consider options like a dementia care centre that specialises in supporting cognitive decline.

The role of a caregiver

Being a caregiver is emotionally and physically demanding. Caregivers often experience fatigue, isolation, and stress — especially as the disease progresses into more severe stages.

That’s why it’s essential to:

• Take regular breaks and ask for help

• Join support groups (online or in person)

• Set realistic expectations and accept that good days and bad days will happen

• Educate yourself about the condition and how it may change over time

In some cases, families may consider transitioning their loved one to a retirement house or old folks home where trained professionals provide round-the-clock support in a calm, structured environment.

When to consider a dementia care centre

While early-stage Alzheimer’s may be manageable at home, as the disease progresses, many families reach a point where specialised care is needed. If your loved one begins experiencing:

• Sundowning (increased confusion or agitation in the evening)

• Wandering or becoming disoriented

• Difficulty managing hygiene or medication

• Delusions or extreme mood changes

… it may be time to explore a dementia care centre. These communities are designed to offer structured support and a secure environment where seniors can live with dignity and as much independence as possible.

Alzheimer’s disease brings with it many emotional and practical challenges, but no one has to face them alone. By learning the early signs and seeking the appropriate support and the right care environment, families can ensure their loved ones receive the care they deserve.

Whether it’s seeking the help of a professional caregiver for Alzheimer’s, arranging day-to-day support, or considering a move to a trusted retirement house, know that help is available — and so is hope.