What happens in stage 1 of Alzheimer's disease?

In Stage 1 of Alzheimer's disease, memory problems occur. Initially, they may seem like slight absentmindedness and may go unnoticed by others. Some people with Alzheimer's are quite successful at hiding these symptoms, but this becomes increasingly difficult. They may lose or misplace valuable objects. They may not fully absorb what they read or hear, and their performance on the job or in social situations begins to suffer. They may become confused in new surroundings or lost in an unfamiliar part of town. Word-finding problems or aphasia -- the inability to use language -- may begin at this stage.

The first personality change is usually a loss of spontaneity. People who have Alzheimer's disease may avoid situations that challenge their abilities and may become withdrawn, apathetic, moody, depressed, irritable, or anxious. They typically deny their problems are serious, even to themselves, and may blame others for their failures. The family may assume that the person is under stress or suffering from an emotional problem. A person examined in this early stage of Alzheimer's disease may receive a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment.

People in the early stages of this disease require the stimulation and interaction with others that all of us need to be a complete human being. Frequently, family and friends feel so uncomfortable themselves that they inadvertently isolate the individual and his or her caregiver, further exacerbating the stress of the disease. Reaching out is even more important than ever, especially because Alzheimer's affects one's ability to initiate.