Alzheimer's and Dementia

If you or someone you love is becoming increasingly forgetful or confused, you may be concerned about Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Alzheimer’s is a disorder of the brain named for the German doctor, Alois Alzheimer, who first identified its symptoms in 1906. Today, more than 5 million Americans live with this progressive, and ultimately, fatal disease. Alzheimer’s dementia as well as other kinds of dementia includes a set of similar symptoms such as a decline in short-term memory, difficulty performing routine tasks, and changes in personality, behavior and mood. While Alzheimer’s is responsible for at least half of all dementia symptoms, other older people suffer from dementia related to diseases such as Parkinson’s, or diseases that affect the blood vessels, including strokes.

While scientists do not know the exact causes of dementia, the biggest risk for dementia cases is simply growing older. The chances of developing Alzheimer’s doubles almost every five years after age 65, and it is estimated than close to half of all people over 85 suffer from dementia. Other dementia causes include a family history of dementia; those who have a parent, sibling, or child with Alzheimer’s dementia are more likely to develop the disease. There are also certain genes that increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s, but even if you or a family member carries these genes, you may not develop Alzheimer’s. Additional risk factors for dementia include severe head injuries, heart disease, toxic reactions such as alcohol or drug abuse, or AIDS.

While many older people forget things from time to time, there are several warning signs for Alzheimer’s and dementia:

• Forgetting the names, dates, and events, and asking the same questions over and over.
• Difficulty finding the right words and following or joining a conversation.
• Problems with concentration and the ability to follow a plan or to perform everyday tasks such as cooking a meal, keeping up with finances , or driving to a familiar location. Locate the best providers in your geographical area.
• Confusion about time and place, and losing or misplacing objects such as keys or glasses.
• Mood swings and other changes in personality such as confusion, depression, and anxiety. People with dementia often become extremely uncomfortable in unfamiliar settings.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, if you suspect someone you love is suffering from these symptoms, it is important to get a proper diagnosis from a doctor as some conditions can be treated.