See a doctor and get an accurate diagnosis.
One of the most important steps if you suspect Alzheimer’s disease is to consult a doctor in a timely manner. The earlier you recognize the first symptoms and receive a confirmed diagnosis, the better the chances of managing the condition effectively. It’s essential that a healthcare professional conducts a comprehensive evaluation, as early symptoms may be subtle or resemble normal forgetfulness. Only a specialist can determine whether signs point to Alzheimer’s. After the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes special medications (for example, Admenta, Prexaron Plus, Aricept) to help slow down the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. These treatments may support cognitive functions and reduce anxiety or depression, which often accompany the condition. This gives you the opportunity to maintain your activity level and quality of life in the early stages of the disease.
Establish a daily routine.
A regular schedule not only helps structure daily tasks but also provides a sense of safety and stability. It’s important to set a consistent routine for waking up, eating, exercising, resting, and sleeping. This can prevent forgetfulness and reduce the likelihood of stressful situations. For example, if you get used to doing certain tasks at the same time each day, they become automatic and require less mental effort, easing the load on your memory. A predictable routine supports independence and builds confidence, helping to reduce anxiety and create a calming environment — all of which contribute positively to overall well-being with Alzheimer’s.
Avoid reading alarming stories about the disease online.
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, it’s important to stay calm and not panic. Although it is natural to want to know more about your condition, reading too much unverified or negative information can only worsen your psychological state, causing anxiety, hopelessness or even depression. Keep in mind that every experience with Alzheimer’s is unique. What happened to others won’t necessarily happen to you. The disease progresses differently in each person, and with proper care and support, many individuals continue to live active, independent lives for a long time. Instead of focusing on the negative, seek information from reliable sources — doctors, professional organizations, or specialized websites — where information is presented objectively and supportively.
Learn to manage your emotions.
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s, it’s important not only to care for your physical health but also to learn how to manage your emotions. A wide range of feelings can arise with this diagnosis — from fear and confusion to anger, shame or sadness. These reactions are natural, but it’s important not to let them take control. Being aware of your emotions and finding healthy ways to express them helps you maintain inner balance. For example, if you feel anxious, take a few deep breaths, go for a walk, or talk to someone close. If you feel irritated, don’t suppress it — physical activity, creativity, or simply resting can help release tension. Keeping an emotional journal or practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, or listening to calming music can also be beneficial. Learning to understand and accept your emotions gives you a sense of control and confidence, even in challenging times.
Organize your space for maximum comfort.
A well-organized environment can reduce daily stress, make everyday tasks easier, and lower the risk of confusion or accidental injuries. Start with the simplest thing — remove unnecessary things that can create clutter or interfere with orientation in the room. Simplify the arrangement of objects: keep frequently used items within easy reach, and store essentials in familiar locations. For example, the keys can always be on a hook by the door, and the phone on a shelf in the corridor. Labels, name tags, or picture cues on cabinets and drawers can also be helpful. Make sure your home is well-lit, especially in hallways, bathrooms, and near stairs. When the environment is clear, predictable and enjoyable, it has a positive effect on mood, confidence and overall well-being in Alzheimer’s disease.