While the Alzheimer’s research is encouraging, there is a long way to go before Alzheimer's disease is considered preventable. The best treatment for Alzheimer's right now is to catch it early and then work to slow the symptoms. Alzheimer's disease is diagnosed via an extensive evaluation done by a qualified clinician, looking to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms of dementia. There is also a basic memory screening test which can evaluate language skills, memory, and cognitive abilities. While it cannot detect Alzheimer's definitively at this time, the basic memory screening test can indicate whether further screening is…
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1) Memory loss that disrupts daily life One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; relying on memory aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own. What’s typical? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later. 2) Challenges in planning or solving problems Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble…
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Depression is a common problem in seniors, but it is rarely diagnosed. Even though those over the age of 65 account for 16 to 25 percent of all suicides in the country, there is very little treatment or services geared towards seniors. How can you make sure your aging parent isn’t in danger? Some Common Causes of Senior Depression Adapting to a move from home to an apartment or retirement facility. Chronic pain. Feelings of isolation or loneliness as children move away and their spouse and close friends die. Loss of independence (problems getting around, caring…
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One of the greatest challenges physicians face is responding to the older patient with memory loss who fears he or she has Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, you and your physician need to know the facts: What’s the difference between the memory loss of normal aging and Alzheimer’s disease? What tests can be performed to assess memory? If it’s Alzheimer’s, how does the physician tell you? What treatments are available? What else can the doctor do to help you or your family? What Alzheimer's clinical trials are available in the area? What resources are available to the family?
Alzheimer's disease: Ten Simple Solutions for Caregivers by Jo Huey Ten chapters, each devoted to one of Jo Huey’s well-known Ten Communication Absolutes. Easy practical suggestions for improving communication, preventing behaviors due to frustration or fear and fostering a hopeful attitude. Talking with Your Doctor from National Institute on Aging This 44-page booklet is full of ideas and tips for good communication with your doctor. The illustrations and conversational tone help to explain how to prepare for a medical appointment, discuss sensitive topics, and coordinate help from family and friends. The Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer's Care by…
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Many people use the terms Alzheimer's disease and dementia interchangeably, but they have very different meanings. Although dementia is a group of symptoms that include memory loss, the term itself doesn't explain what is causing the symptoms. Alzheimer's disease is the leading cause of dementia, but here are many other causes. Dementia is a general term for memory loss that is severe enough to interfere with daily life. The signs of dementia may include forgetfulness, difficulty making plans, thinking ahead, or using language, as well as changing character traits, among other symptoms. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 50 to 80 percent…
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Typical age-related memory loss and other changes compared to Alzheimer's Signs of Alzheimer's Typical age-related changes Poor judgment and decision making Making a bad decision once in a while Inability to manage a budget Missing a monthly payment Losing track of the date or the season Forgetting which day it is and remembering later Difficulty having a conversation Sometimes forgetting which word to use Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them Losing things from time to tim If you notice any of these signs or any of the signs in the 10 Warning Signs of…
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The common symptoms of mild stage Alzheimer’s disease are: Having trouble following multi-step processes i.e. cooking recipe. Getting lost, even in places where they are familiar. Having trouble performing household chores i.e. cleaning, laundry, etc. Avoiding social situations or having trouble remembering names, appointments or recent events. You can help your aging parents and/or loved one by taking the following steps: manage your loved one’s money to remove the stress and anxiety of bill paying etc. write reminders to your loved one in the same place i.e. calendar or notepad keep a list, near the telephone, of the names and…
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The Alzheimer’s Association developed a publication called Tools for Early Identification, Assessment and Treatment for People with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia the following is ten warning signs. For individuals with several of these symptoms they should see a physician for a complete examination. 1. Memory loss. One of the most common early signs of dementia is forgetting recently learned information. While it’s normal to forget appointments, names, or telephone numbers, those with dementia will forget such things more often and not remember them later. 2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks. People with dementia often find it hard to complete everyday…
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