Alzheimer’s disease is believed to affect nearly 4 million Americans. Scientists and researchers believe that in the next couple of decades, as the U.S. population ages, Alzheimer’s may potentially affect tens of millions more. The large number of “baby boomers” who are approaching age 60, the earliest that the disease usually begins its onset, is the reason for this hypothesis. Although researchers are uncovering more each day about this devastating illness, relatively little is known about its causes and how to treat it. However, research indicates that early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can lead to a better prognosis and delay some of the symptoms that rob its victims most of the quality of life.

Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. But medications are available that, while they can’t reverse the disease or eliminate symptoms, can help to alleviate the symptoms. The earlier that medications are administered, the more successful they will be at alleviating symptoms such as memory loss and anxiety. Early diagnosis, as disturbing as it may be to face, can also help the individual be able to make care management decisions, develop advance directives for end-of-life care wishes, and secure assistance from a trusted friend or loved one in managing financial, insurance, and legal matters.

Preparing for Future Needs

Early diagnosis can also help the individual prepare their family and their home environment for what is to come. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it eventually destroys a person’s ability to remember how to complete everyday tasks such as cooking a meal or brushing their teeth. Therefore, having a microwave for easy cooking is one step to take; pre-programming phone numbers into a telephone or cell phone will eliminate the need to remember them. Get into routines that allow less dependence on memory: adopt the habit of storing your purse, keys, and wallet in the same place; keep your medications in a labeled pillbox partitioned off for days of the week. Other preparations include finding support groups in your community and educating yourself on the

Recognize Symptoms, Take Action

Therefore, it is important for people in their early sixties and older to be aware of signs and symptoms that may point to Alzheimer’s. The beginning stages are characterized by mild forgetfulness that is more a nuisance than troublesome – being unable to recall the names of acquaintances, recent events, or how to do a math problem, for example. Feeling anxious or becoming easily frustrated at slight disturbances (e.g., schedule changes, interruptions in daily routine) is another common

In later stages of Alzheimer’s, these behaviors become more prominent. What was once slight irritation can become a noticeable personality change; anxiety turns into frequent agitation and acting out, and the ability to think rationally dissipates. Of course, later stages are also characterized by greater memory loss and depleted ability to remember recent events. Eventually, an Alzheimer’s sufferer needs total care, forgetting how to read and write, engaging in wandering away from home or aggressive behavior.

If you are age 60 or older and are experiencing noticeable memory problems or uncharacteristic mood swings, the best course of action is to contact your healthcare provider. Your healthcare professional will take your family medical history, assess your mental and physical status, and conduct any laboratory testing that he or she deems necessary. Physicians are able to accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s disease about 90 percent of the time, experts say; a brain autopsy is necessary for a 100 percent certain diagnosis.

Keep in mind that although Alzheimer’s is a difficult reality to face, early diagnosis will prolong your quality of life. Also, researchers say that 5 to 10 percent of individuals complaining of memory loss have a treatable disorder, such is metabolic problems, vitamin deficiencies, or depression that is responsible for causing the problem. The earlier Alzheimer’s disease is identified, the better your symptoms will respond to treatment interventions.