Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer's is a type of dementia affecting memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.
(Source: Alzheimer’s Association. https://www.alz.org
What are some early signs or symptoms of Dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Alzheimer's is a brain disease. It causes a slow decline in memory and reasoning skills. When the associated memory loss causes disruptions in daily life, it is time to see a doctor. People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease quickly forget information they just learned. They might forget important dates. They’ll ask the same questions repeatedly.
• Driving to familiar locations may be difficult. Completing familiar tasks like remembering rules to familiar games, or making a grocery list can be difficult.
• Some Alzheimer’s patients may experience changes in their ability to develop plans or recall math solutions. Keeping track of monthly bills may be confusing.
• Vision changes are often an early sign of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Trouble reading or with balance. Confusing colors and a loss of depth perception can make driving dangerous.
• Sometimes Alzheimer’s or dementia victims have trouble remembering where they are or how they arrived.
• An early sign of Alzheimer’s or other dementia is trouble following or joining a conversation.
There are numerous other signs and symptoms of early-onset Dementia and Alzheimer’s. If you or someone you love is showing signs of unusual or frequent memory loss, the best course is to consult a medical professional.
Is Alzheimer’s Disease hereditary?
While there are genetic components to Alzheimer’s, it is not solely hereditary. A family history of the disease can increase risk but sometimes individuals with no family history become victims.
Alzheimer’s Disease be prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimers Disease. Certainly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying socially and mentally active and managing risk factors like diabetes and high blood pressure may reduce the risk.
Who is at risk for Alzheimer’s Disease?
Age is the most significant risk factor. The older the person, the greater the risk.
Is there a cure Alzheimer’s Disease?
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s Disease. There are treatments focusing on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for those who have been diagnosed.
How is Alzheimer’s Disease diagnosed?
Cognitive testing, medical history and the ruling out of other potential of cognitive impairment are the most typical basis for diagnosis. Brain imaging and lab tests are also likely to be used.
How does Alzheimer’s Disease progress?
Alzheimer’s Disease progresses in stages. Mild cognitive impairment progresses to moderate and severe dementia. The rate at which the disease progresses can vary significantly from person to person.
Are there Alzheimer’s Disease medication treatments?
Cholinesterase inhibitors and mematine (brand names include: Namenda®, Namenda® Titration Pak and Namzaric®) that can help manage cognitive and behavioral symptoms in some individuals.
How can caregivers support individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease?
People tasked with caring for Alzheimer’s Disease can provide emotional support, ensure safety, assist with daily tasks and engage in activities promoting cognitive and social engagement. Respite care and support groups also are helpful to caregivers.
Is Alzheimer’s Disease the same as dementia?
No. Alzheimer’s Disease is a specific type of dementia. Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of cognitive disorders characterized by memory loss and impaired thinking. Alzheimer’s Disease is, however, the most common cause of dementia.
Can Alzheimer’s Disease be reversed or improved with treatment?
Current treatments often help manage symptoms and temporarily slow the disease’s progression. However, they do not reverse or cure Alzheimer’s Disease.
Please note that Alzheimer’s Disease research is ongoing. New developments may occur at any time. If and when they do, we will make the information available here. It is crucial to consult healthcare professionals and stay updated on the latest advancements in Alzheimer’s Disease research and treatment.