Not Recognizing Family Members

It's not unusual for someone with AZ to have lucid moments. My DW started having a lot of memory issues a year and a half ago. Her doctor ordered both an MRI and CAT which revealed nothing. However, a thorough neuropsychological exam concluded that she had early stage AZ.

We are 5 years into this and my DH is undiagnosed as he refuses testing. His doctor is aware and we are pretty sure it's FTD of some sort. He still seems in the early stages but has had difficulty recognizing people since the beginning. If there was anything different about them he would not know them. In the past year it has gotten worse. Lately it has happened a hand full of times with the worst not recognizing our 17 year old granddaughter. It has to do with where he sees them. If it's an unfamiliar place it throws him off. We were at a softball game and he asked this girl if we were on the visitors side. She said yes to him. I got there and asked if he had seen our granddaughter. He asked where she was and I pointed her out. He was very upset and went to apologize to her. She lives near us and used to visit us weekly but over the past year she has been busy with work and school so it's been a few months, but still he certainly should have recognized her. I can't explain it except new places or a change in the person looks throws him off. It makes me wonder if he's still in the early stage but in other ways he is. I hope this helps you, knowing you are not alone.

Hi @jaycey . I don't have PCA, but I do have face blindness, and I am very familiar with the problem of not recognizing people that are familiar to me. I love name tags. My sister has given up going to church due to this, and she attends church on Second Life (online) where everyone has their name above their head.

If you come up with a terrific solution, let me know. I'm still working, and people I've worked with for years but rarely see will come into my office. Sometimes I can carry on a conversation just knowing what their role is, but sometimes I have to ask their name and it's embarrassing for both of us.

I found this online.

• Communicate your needs Before attending, be open with the host or close friends about your condition and the support you might need.
• Use voice recognition and talking devices Rely on apps, talking watches, or other devices for reminders and telling time, as traditional watches and written information can be difficult to read.
• Focus on touch and other senses If an object is hard to recognize visually, use touch to identify it. Fidget toys with different textures can also help reduce anxiety and keep hands busy.
• Have a designated area Identify a quiet, well-lit area where you can retreat if you feel overwhelmed or overstimulated. Anxiety and feeling flustered can exacerbate visual problems.
• Carry a cane (optional) Some people carry a cane to let others know they have vision issues, which can help others understand why they might bump into things or misjudge distances.
• Limit alcohol Alcohol can further impair an already challenged visual and cognitive system.
• Go with a trusted person Having a friend or family member who understands your condition can provide support, help navigate social interactions, and ensure safety. Hope it helps.