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- Memory:
- forgetting names or numbers more frequently
- forgetting appointments or holidays
- forgetting to take medication
- repeating self
- misplacing items and not being able to retrace steps
- forgetting to pay bills
- Disorientation:
- unsure of time of day, date or season
- increased focus on clocks and time
- unsure how they "got somewhere"
- Difficulty with familiar daily tasks:
- not participating in activities as much
- some difficulty operating the oven, microwave, remote control
- not cooking as much-possibly burning items
- Items in fridge are expired
- trouble managing pet care
- saying "my cell phone isn't working" or "this computer is broken"
- throwing or giving away things they used to enjoy: knitting, puzzles, computer, books, tools
- Word finding or writing changes:
- using the wrong name for something frequently
- not able to find the right word in conversation frequently
- writing less legibly or with fewer words
- taking longer to process information or to answer questions
- Planning and problem solving changes:
- difficulty following a recipe or instructions
- difficulty with balancing a checkbook or paying bills
- missing medication or appointments
- often late - having difficulty organizing routine
- procrastinating tasks and getting to events
- Withdrawing from social activities and family:
- reading less
- not cooking as much
- staying home more often
- missing family functions
- not participating in hobbies or interests
- increased stress and anxiety
- making excuses for not doing things:
- "oh I don't feel like it"
- "it just doesn't interest me anymore"
- "that hasn't been working for quite a while"
- "I don't really care about the conversation at those lunches anymore"
- Decreased judgment
- dressing in same clothes
- appearing more disheveled
- making more purchases on-line or through TV advertising
- sending money through mail or phone marketing