Expert: Paula Damgaard - 6/16/2004

Question
Hi!  I think my Dad, who's 76 is showing early signs of Alzheimer's....don't know for sure.
He has a hearing aid, but is very active for his age.  He plays golf 2-3 times a week and still travels around. He lives alone, my mom died 7 years ago.

Lately, he's gotten times mixed up..not heard what you know you told him....asking something that he's already been told the answer to- stuff like that.

Could you tell me what the early signs really are? Thank you for helping me..
Karen

Answer
Karen,  the signs you are describing do sound troublesome.  The thing about the early signs are that they are transient.  Most people think that everyone loses their shortterm memory.  Most often it is a fleeting, come and go lose of memory.  

My advice to you is take him to someone who specializes in geriatrics/dementia.  He should have a full battery of neuropsychological tests.  He should be examined after this by a geriatrician or a neurologist.  He made need to have a CT or MRI scan to see if there is another cause for his problems.  

Right now I am watching an excellent show on PBS about Alzheimer's which I believe is running several times this month.  You should try to catch it.

You should also contact the Alzheimer's Association in your area for further information.  They may also be able to help you find a physician who specializes in dementia.  Look for a University setting if there is one near you that participates in Alzheimer's research.

Good luck.  I hope your father is only having a bad hearing aid battery!  Paula