Many people we know been affected by Alzheimer’s – friends, former classmates, relatives — and it seems like more every year, as we advance in age.

In the old days, when a person became elderly and was the victim of dementia, the person usually stayed at home or moved into the home of one of their children or other relatives. Someone in the family cared for the relative. All our lives are different today. Our way of living usually demands two paychecks and caring for a family member at home is almost always out of the question. Nursing homes and other facilities have not been able to keep up with the demand for their services, especially in the area of Alzheimer’s and dementia. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, research is forging ahead. Surely in the not too distant future, something will be discovered that will lessen or even cure this dread disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association has chapters in many places, including in southern Maine. Their website has a great deal of extremely useful information for all of us who are anticipating Alzheimer’s in our own lives or who are concerned about friend and relatives. Some of us may mistake the routine signs of aging for Alzheimer’s and it is helpful to review these signs from time to time.

Are you worried about some of the following? If so, list your concerns and questions for your doctor – and take it with you to your next visit. Note: This list is for information only and not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified professional.

Memory loss that disrupts daily life. One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s, especially in the early stages, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; relying on memory aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own. What’s typical? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

Challenges in planning or solving problems. Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before. What’s typical? Making occasional errors when balancing a checkbook.

Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure. People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favorite game. What’s typical? Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave or to record a television show.

Confusion with time or place. People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there. What’s typical? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.

Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast. In terms of perception, they may pass a mirror and think someone else is in the room. They may not recognize their own reflection. What’s typical? Vision changes related to cataracts.

New problems with words in speaking or writing. People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word or call things by the wrong name (e.g., calling a watch a “hand clock”). What’s typical? Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.

Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time. What’s typical? Misplacing things from time to time, such as a pair of glasses or the remote control.

Decreased or poor judgment. People with Alzheimer’s may experience changes in judgment or decision making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean. What’s typical? Making a bad decision once in a while.

Withdrawal from work or social activities. A person with Alzheimer’s may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced. What’s typical? Sometimes feeling weary of work, family and social obligations.

Changes in mood and personality. The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer’s can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends or in places where they are out of their comfort zone. What’s typical? Developing very specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted. (We used to call this being set in our ways. Purely normal!)

Those who have questions or concerns, or know someone that is “not themselves” these days, should talk with a medical professional – and call the Alzheimer’s Association. Early diagnosis provides the best opportunities for treatment, support and future planning. For more information, go to www.alz.org/10signs or call 800-272-3900.

Kay Soldier welcomes reader ideas for column topics of interest to seniors. She can be reached by email at kso48@aol.com, or write to 114 Tandberg Trail, Windham, ME 04062.