8. Personality changes and mood swings
A person with Alzheimer’s might exhibit changes in personality and sudden mood swings. They could become fearful, suspicious, depressed, fearful or anxious. A once self-confident person might become tentative and shy. They may be easily upset at home, or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.

9. Changes in grooming and personal hygiene
Sudden or declining attention to hygiene - not bathing, wearing the same clothes over and over again, not brushing teeth - can point to Alzheimer’s disease. When a person once kept her home immaculate all her life, but suddenly stop cleaning and leaves clutter laying around for weeks, it could be cause for concern.

10. Withdrawing from friends and family
Someone with Alzheimer’s might start withdrawing from family, friends and activities they once enjoyed. Rather than calling attention to memory lapses or communication issues, they avoid situations where they have to be around others. They are typically embarrassed at their inability to communicate or perform tasks like they once did. Alzheimer’s-related depression also cause withdrawal from social situations.

Doctors diagnose Alzheimer’s or dementia only if two or more brain functions - such as memory and language skills - are significantly impaired without loss of consciousness. If you think someone you love has Alzheimer’s disease, contact your doctor.

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By Marlo Sollitto, AgingCare.com editor
AgingCare.com is a leading online community that connects people caring for elderly parents to other caregivers, personalized information, and local resources. AgingCare.com has become the trusted resource for exchanging ideas, sharing conversations and finding credible information for those seeking elder care solutions.