Dementia is a degenerative brain ailment that affects millions of individuals worldwide, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common form of dementia. Memory loss is frequently the most well-known symptom of dementia; however, there are also subtle indicators that might develop in the early stages of the disease. These signs can begin to appear at any time. It is possible that you will not notice these indicators at first; however, it is essential that you are aware of them because the sooner you begin treatment, the better off your loved one will begin to feel. Please take note of these two symptoms, as well as their implications and the actions you can take if you observe them in a person you care about.
Acquiring Knowledge of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

A gradual brain disorder that causes a deterioration in memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities, Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that affects people over time. Plaques and tangles, which are aberrant protein deposits in the brain, are the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. These deposits disrupt the normal functioning of the brain and are indicative of the condition. Changes in behavior, difficulties with language, and a reduction in cognitive ability are all possible aspects of the progression of the disease that individuals may face. 1
Some of the symptoms of dementia include agitation and wandering.

Many of us do not immediately recognize the two modest early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease, as was discussed earlier. These signs are not immediately obvious. Both restlessness and wandering are symptoms of this. If you are aware of these and how they express themselves, it may be easier for you to seek treatment for yourself or a loved one at an early stage.
Unease or anxiety

Dementia is characterized by a number of symptoms, one of which is restlessness, which may be particularly problematic for someone living with dementia as well as for the caregivers who assist them. One of the symptoms of restlessness is an inability to sit motionless, as well as fidgeting, walking, or engaging in activities that are continuously changing. It is possible that this is the result of a reduction in cognitive abilities, anxiety, or a reaction to discomfort within the body. Two (2)
Wandering aimlessly

Wandering is yet another subtle indicator of dementia that can pose substantial threats to the safety of persons who are afflicted with the condition. There are a number of factors that might lead to wandering behavior, including confusion, disorientation, or a lack of awareness of one’s surroundings. Not only will they wander during the day, but they will also wander throughout the night on occasion. It is possible for people who have dementia to wander around aimlessly, looking for a familiar area or person. This can easily lead to them becoming disoriented or putting themselves in potentially hazardous situations. (3),
If you notice any of these symptoms in a loved one, what step should you take?

As soon as you become aware of a loved one’s restlessness or roaming, it is imperative that you take immediate action to alleviate these symptoms. For the purpose of discussing your findings and obtaining an accurate diagnosis, you should make an appointment with a healthcare provider. The installation of locks on doors, the utilization of GPS tracking systems, and the establishment of a secure living environment are all examples of safety precautions that caregivers can take in their homes to minimize the risk of wandering. In order to alleviate agitation and restlessness, you should do everything in your power to create a quiet environment. Eliminate sources of stress and make jobs easier. Encourage your loved one to engage in physical activity. This may include activities such as gardening, going for walks, or even dancing to their preferred music with them.
A Conversation with Your Loved One Regarding Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Forms of Dementia

It goes without saying that you cannot coerce your loved one into going to the doctor; they must do it voluntarily. It might be difficult to talk about Alzheimer’s disease with a loved one, but it is crucial to communicate openly in order to provide support and understanding. Approach the conversation with empathy and compassion, focusing on sharing facts about the sickness and accessible resources for aid. Encourage the person you care about to take part in the decisions that are made regarding their care, provide them the ability to participate in activities that are beneficial to their cognitive function, and offer emotional support to them throughout their journey with dementia.
Recent Developments in Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment: Two Perhaps New Drugs in the Next Year

Research on Alzheimer’s disease has made significant strides in recent years, and these improvements have showed hopeful developments in potential new treatment options for the condition. Currently, aducanumab and lecanemab are in the last stages of clinical studies. Both of these medications have shown that they are effective in targeting the underlying mechanisms that are responsible for the advancement of Alzheimer’s disease. These medications are designed to lessen the amount of amyloid plaques that are present in the brain, which may improve overall brain function and slow down the progression of cognitive decline. After twenty years of not having any new medications for Alzheimer’s disease, we now have two prospective new drugs that could be released within the next year. According to Dr. Richard Oakley, who works for the Alzheimer’s Society, this may be the beginning of the end for Alzheimer’s disease. (five)
To summarize, the bottom line

It is essential for early detection and intervention to be able to recognize the subtle indicators of dementia, such as restlessness and wandering as symptoms of dementia. You will be able to provide the necessary help and resources to improve the quality of life and well-being of your loved ones if you are diligent and proactive in monitoring these signs in them. To ensure that patients who are afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease receive the best possible care, it is important to remain educated about the latest developments in Alzheimer’s research and treatment choices.