Community Spotlight: The Importance of Early Detection with Alzheimer’s Association
Alzheimer’s
Association Explains How Early Detection and Diagnosis Can Benefit Individuals
with Alzheimer’s
When it comes to looking after the people we care about most,
we know that many people will stop at nothing to ensure that their loved ones
receive the genuine care they deserve. Recently we sat down with our partners
at the Alzheimer’s
Association of Northeastern New York to discuss the importance of
early detection and diagnosis with Alzheimer’s patients. Continue reading to
learn more.
Advancements
in Alzheimer’s Treatments
As of January 2023[1] ,
there are two FDA-approved treatments to slow the progress of Alzheimer’s. Both
of these treatments (Leqembi and Aduhelm) target an underlying cause of the
disease and can give people more time to be independent, work, enjoy family milestones, and plan for future
care. However, both treatments are for people in the early stages of
Alzheimer’s, making early detection more important than ever.
What Are the Warning Signs for
Alzheimer’s?
The Alzheimer’s Association has information on warning signs and what to watch
for in yourself or loved ones (Click here to learn more.) While some memory
lapses are normal, if memory or cognitive issues disrupt daily life, it’s time
to talk to a healthcare provider. Here are some signs to consider:
●
Just like our bodies, our brains
change as we age. Most of us will eventually notice some slowed thinking,
however, one of the most common early symptoms of early Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned
information. A person may forget a recent event, but still be able to
recall detailed memories from their childhood.
●
Forgetting a few items on your grocery list is normal, but forgetting how to
get home
from your normal grocery store is not. Confusion
with places and navigation can be an early sign of memory problems.
●
Difficulty completing familiar tasks, like cooking a recipe you make often or getting dressed
is also a cause for concern. A normal part of aging might be needing some help
setting up a new appointment. It’s not unusual to need help with new things,
but forgetting regular routines is not a normal part of
aging.
●
Another warning sign is personality changes, such as becoming
suspicious, angry or easily confused in ways that are out of the ordinary.
Normal aging might be getting annoyed when someone interrupts your routine.
The
Benefits of Early Diagnosis
The earlier an individual is diagnosed with
Alzheimer’s or other memory issues, the more treatment options they will have.
Early diagnosis can also mean eligibility for clinical trials of potential new
treatments. And in order to find the cure to this disease – which is more
likely to be a drug cocktail than a single treatment – we must continue to make
progress with clinical treatment trials.
Another benefit to an early diagnosis is that
it gives more time to plan for the future. Planning ahead allows you
to express your wishes about legal, financial, and end-of-life decisions. You
and your family will be able to review and update legal documents, discuss
finances and property, and identify your care preferences. You can also address
potential safety issues, such as driving
or wandering, ahead of time.
If you notice a warning sign and want help with next
steps, the Alzheimer’s
Association has a 24/7 Helpline that can be reached by dialing (800)
272.3900. They can help navigate difficult conversations with family, prepare
for a doctor’s appointment, and find local resources. To learn more about how
to approach loved ones about memory concerns, click below.
