When we think of early Alzheimer’s symptoms, we often think of forgetfulness, confusion, or difficulty with language. But for many families, the first red flag is something entirely different — money problems.

Recent research shows that changes in financial behavior may occur years before a formal Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Recognizing these warning signs early could help families intervene before serious consequences — like unpaid bills, scams, or financial loss — take hold.

Why Financial Behavior Is an Early Indicator

Money management is a complex cognitive task that requires memory, planning, attention, and judgment. These are among the first mental functions affected by Alzheimer’s.

As brain changes begin — often silently — individuals may:

• Forget to pay bills
• Make unusual or impulsive purchases
• Withdraw large sums of money
• Fall for phishing emails or phone scams
• Repeatedly give money to unfamiliar charities

A 2020 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that people with Alzheimer’s started showing signs of missed credit payments up to six years before diagnosis.

Real-Life Warning Signs Families Should Watch For

• Mail piling up: Unopened bills or overdue notices
• Duplicate purchases: Buying the same item multiple times without remembering
• Bank confusion: Trouble balancing checkbooks or remembering account passwords
• Emotional purchases: Giving away money, over-tipping, or donating to unfamiliar causes
• Defensiveness: Becoming irritated or evasive when discussing money

These behaviors are often brushed off as normal aging, but when they’re new and persistent, they may indicate early cognitive decline.

What To Do If You Notice Financial Changes

If you suspect a loved one is struggling with money management:

1. Start a conversation gently: Express concern, not judgment.
2. Review their financial records: Look for patterns or recent changes.
3. Schedule a cognitive evaluation: Many memory clinics now ask about financial behavior.
4. Take protective steps: Set up bill autopay, limit credit access, or assign financial power of attorney if needed.

Protecting Loved Ones from Financial Abuse

Unfortunately, people with early dementia are frequent targets for financial scams. To help safeguard their assets:

• Sign up for fraud alerts from banks
• Reduce telemarketing exposure by joining the National Do Not Call Registry
• Monitor credit reports for unusual activity
• Educate them (and yourself) about common scams

Final Thoughts

Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t always start with memory lapses. In many cases, the earliest clues are found in the checkbook — not the calendar. If you’re noticing financial changes in yourself or someone you love, it may be time to consider an evaluation.

The sooner Alzheimer’s is detected, the better the chances of protecting both brain and bank account.