After more than three decades of caring for seniors here in Maryland, I’ve sat across from countless families who say the same thing: “I noticed something was off, but I didn’t know what to look for.” Early recognition of Alzheimer’s disease can make a
profound difference — not just in planning care, but in preserving quality of life for as long as possible.

Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. While it’s true that some forgetfulness comes with getting older, there’s a meaningful difference between occasionally misplacing your keys and repeatedly forgetting the names of close family members. The disease progresses in stages, and catching it early opens the door to conversations, medications, and planning that simply aren’t available later on.

Some of the most common early warning signs include asking the same questions repeatedly within a short period of time, getting lost in familiar places, difficulty following recipes or managing finances that were once second nature, and noticeable changes in mood or personality — particularly increased anxiety, suspicion, or withdrawal from social activities.

What I always encourage families to watch for is a pattern, not a single incident. One confusing afternoon doesn’t signal Alzheimer’s. But if you find yourself noticing these behaviors consistently over weeks and months, it’s time to schedule an evaluation with a physician.

At Alfred House, we welcome families to reach out even before a formal diagnosis. Understanding what your loved one may be experiencing — and what support looks like — helps everyone navigate the journey ahead with more confidence and less fear.
You don’t have to figure this out alone.

Dr. Veena Alfred  Ph.D
CEO /Administrator