Reporter: Professor, what are the early signs of Alzheimer's disease?
Dr. Rosalio Torres: The first and most common sign of Alzheimer’s is memory decline, especially forgetting recent events. People with Alzheimer’s often have trouble remembering information, repeating questions, or forgetting appointments. They may also have trouble making plans or solving simple problems. For example, a person who was previously a good cook may suddenly forget how to make familiar dishes or the steps.
Reporter: Besides memory decline, are there any other signs?
Dr. Rosalio Torres: Yes. Alzheimer’s also affects orientation and spatial awareness, making it easy for people to get lost even in familiar places. Some people also have trouble finding words when communicating or miscalling objects. Psychological signs are also important: people may become anxious, depressed or irritable for no apparent reason. In more advanced stages, they may lose the ability to recognize loved ones or forget basic skills like how to dress or eat.
Reporter: How does Alzheimer's disease affect patients, professor?
Dr. Rosalio Torres: The influence is enormous. In the early stages, patients may only experience minor inconveniences in their daily activities. However, as the disease progresses, they gradually lose the ability to care for themselves, becoming completely dependent on the help of family or caregivers. In addition, cognitive and behavioral decline can lead to feelings of loneliness and despair, severely reducing the quality of life. For families, caring for an Alzheimer's patient is a major challenge both physically and mentally, and can even cause economic pressure due to the cost of treatment and long-term care.
Reporter: Sounds really worrying. So is there any way to detect it early and improve the patient's quality of life?
Dr. Rosalio Torres: Early detection plays a very important role. If they notice unusual signs of memory or behavior, family members should take the patient to see a specialist for timely examination and evaluation. In addition, they should apply natural methods without using drugs. Early treatment helps control symptoms and prolongs the time the patient can live independently. In addition, support and companionship from the family is also a decisive factor in helping the patient maintain optimism and a sense of security in life.