3 min
Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias: Recognizing Early Signs and Preserving Independence
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia, is a progressive brain disorder associated with the buildup of abnormal amyloid and tau proteins that damage nerve cells. Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) can affect memory, judgment, mobility, balance, and everyday independence, often beginning years before symptoms become noticeable. “One of the most important things to understand about AD/ADRD is that it affects more than memory,” explains Deborah Jehu, PhD. “It can change how someone plans, makes decisions, moves through their environment, and completes tasks they have performed independently for years.” Recognizing the Early Signs Early symptoms may include repeatedly asking the same questions, forgetting recently learned information, misplacing items, struggling to find words, or having difficulty managing finances and appointments. Someone may also become confused in familiar places, struggle to follow a recipe, or find it increasingly difficult to organize multistep activities. AD/ADRD progression is variable, and cognitive and functional abilities may fluctuate from day to day. Individuals may require intermittent reminders or assistance with tasks such as meal preparation and medication management. Persistent changes in daily functioning warrant clinical evaluation but do not necessarily indicate AD/ADRD. Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosing AD/ADRD typically involves reviewing medical history, assessing memory and thinking, evaluating daily functioning and conducting physical and neurological examinations. Clinicians may order laboratory tests to identify other causes of cognitive changes, such as thyroid problems or vitamin deficiencies. Brain imaging and, when appropriate, blood-based biomarkers, cerebrospinal fluid testing, or amyloid PET scans can help clarify the diagnosis. There is currently no cure for AD/ADRD, but treatments can help manage symptoms or slow disease progression in some people. Medications such as donepezil and memantine may help manage cognitive symptoms, while certain anti-amyloid therapies may slow decline in eligible patients with early Alzheimer’s disease. Treatment decisions require individualized assessment of potential benefits, risks, and monitoring needs. Preserving Mobility and Independence Dr. Jehu emphasizes that comprehensive AD/ADRD care must address physical function alongside cognitive health. People with AD/ADRD can be up to twice as likely to fall as cognitively healthy older adults. As the condition progresses, changes in balance, gait, coordination, and judgment can increase fall risk, potentially leading to injuries, reduced mobility, and loss of independence. These challenges make routine mobility assessments and early rehabilitation particularly important. Physical and occupational therapists can recommend individualized strength and balance exercises, adapt activities, and identify environmental hazards. Caregivers can also support independence through consistent routines, familiar surroundings, simple instructions, medication reminders, and visual cues. “Supporting independence means recognizing what a person can still do and providing just enough assistance to help them succeed safely,” says Jehu. “The goal is not simply to prevent accidents, but to preserve dignity, autonomy, and opportunities for meaningful engagement.” Technology may also help through timely reminders, medication prompts and task-by- task guidance. However, these tools should complement, not replace, human connection, professional care and appropriate supervision. Looking Ahead Early recognition, personalized treatment, physical activity, and coordinated support can help people living with AD/ADRD maintain function and quality of life. Dr. Jehu underscores the need for research that evaluates practical, dementia-specific interventions to preserve mobility, prevent falls and reduce caregiver burden. Ultimately, successful AD/ADRD care should be measured not only by changes in memory, but also by a person’s ability to remain safe, active, connected, and as independent as possible throughout the course of the disease. If you're interested in speaking with Dr. Jehu about Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia and the research taking place at Augusta University – contact AU's External Communications Team mediarelations@augusta.edu to arrange an interview today.
