Behavioral changes start even before experiencing memory loss. Photo by Anna Gutermuth/ CC BY
MANILA, Philippines – Scientists have not yet fully discovered what causes Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) , but a study published in the journal Neurology claims that behavioral changes start even before experiencing memory loss.
While most people think that behavioral changes come after the diagnosis of AD, researchers found out that depression and delusions develop earlier.
In the study, 2,416 people over the age of 50 were observed for seven years. Take note that each individual chosen does not have cognitive issues. After seven years of observation, more than half of them have developed dementia.
It was also found out that those with dementia had twice the risk of developing depression earlier, even before their dementia symptoms started. They were also 12 times more likely to develop delusions.
Here are the symptoms of, which showed consistency on the study:
- Irritability
- Depression
- Nighttime behavioral changes
- Anxiety
- Appetite changes
- Agitation
- Apathy
- Elation
- Motor disturbances
- Hallucinations
- Delusion
- Disinhibition
Recent data from the Alzheimer’s Association reveal that there are approximately 500,000 people dying each year because of (AD). One in 3 seniors dies with AD and most deaths comprise of female. If any of these symptoms occur, even before you reach the age 50, you might have a great chance of developing dementia at an early age.
