Recognizing the signs. Responding with compassion. Supporting independence.

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias can be confusing, painful, and overwhelming for both the person experiencing symptoms and the people who love them. Knowing what to watch for is one step toward better care, more empathy, and more meaningful support.

At Northeast Independent Living Services (NEILS), we believe that understanding these symptoms can empower families and caregivers. Below is the simple guide to the 5 A’s of Alzheimer’s; what they are, how they show up, and what you can do to help.

What Are the 5 A’s?

The “5 A’s” are five characteristic symptoms commonly seen in Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. They are:

• Amnesia
• Aphasia
• Apraxia
• Agnosia
• Anomia

Each represents a different way that the brain’s functions may be affected. While not everyone with Alzheimer’s will experience all five, these help identify what may be going on and guide how to respond.

Amnesia: Loss of Memory

What it means:

Amnesia refers to memory loss, starting often with short-term memories such as forgetting recent conversations, appointments, or where things were placed. Over time, it may affect long-term memory too.

How it shows up:

• Repeatedly asking the same questions
• Getting lost or disoriented in familiar places
• Forgetting names, appointments, or recent events

What caregivers can do:

• Use memory aids (calendars, photo albums)
• Keep routines consistent
• Gently remind or cue without correcting or frustrating

Aphasia: Language Difficulties

What it means:

Aphasia refers to problems with communication, including both expressing oneself and understanding what others say. It may affect speaking, writing, or comprehension.

How it shows up:

• Struggling to find the right words
• Using simpler or incorrect words
• Difficulty following conversations or instructions

What caregivers can do:

• Speak slowly and clearly; allow extra time for responses
• Use short, simple sentences and gestures
• Ask in different ways if something isn’t understood

Apraxia: Trouble with Movement

What it means:

Apraxia is a loss of the ability to perform voluntary movements or carry out familiar tasks, even though there’s no apparent physical weakness. Alzheimer’s can affect how the brain sends signals that coordinate movement.

How it shows up:

• Difficulty with tasks like using utensils, dressing, bathing, or even walking properly
• May understand what needs to be done but struggle physically to do it

What caregivers can do:

• Break tasks into smaller steps and guide them through
• Use adaptive tools or make the environment safer (non-slip mats, grab bars)
• Offer support without taking over completely

Agnosia: Recognizing Becomes Difficult

What it means:

Agnosia is the inability to recognize or make sense of sensory information. This might affect recognizing objects, sounds, faces or smells even though the senses themselves may be working fine.

How it shows up:

• Not recognizing familiar people or places
• Confusing everyday objects (holding a fork and not recognizing what it is)
• Difficulty interpreting what something looks/sounds like

What caregivers can do:

• Use visual or verbal cues (labels, pointing, demonstrating use)
• Keep familiar objects close and consistent
• Maintain a calm, predictable environment

Anomia: When Words Elude

What it means:

Anomia is the difficulty or inability to recall the names of everyday objects. Even when the person knows what the object does, they may struggle to name it.

How it shows up:

• “What’s that called?” becomes a frequent question
• Using vague terms like “thing,” “that,” or describing instead of naming

What caregivers can do:

• Allow extra time during conversations
• Help by giving hints or showing pictures
• Encourage naming games or memory exercises

How NEILS Can Help

At NEILS, our mission is to support seniors and their families through challenging times. We offer:

• Home Care Services: Assistance with daily tasks, personal care, medication reminders, and general support that allows individuals to stay in their homes longer and with dignity.

• Consumer-Directed Services: Where families or trusted caregivers share in the caregiving, with NEILS handling the oversight and coordination.
• Transition Services: If a loved one is returning from facility care, we help ensure there’s a stable support system in place at home.

Our teams are trained to recognize symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia like the 5 A’s and tailor care plans that respect the individual’s preferences, capacities, and needs. Learn about all of the services that NEILS provides by clicking here.

Recognizing, Responding, Staying Connected

Understanding the 5 A’s isn’t just about labeling; it’s about recognizing signs, responding with empathy, and staying connected even when things change. With support from NEILS, your loved one can continue to live with dignity, safety, and independence for as long as possible.

Need help navigating this path? Visit our Contact Us page or call NEILS at 573-221-8282 to learn more about how we can support your family.