You might ask why physicians urge people to get screened for an early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Couldn’t that just prolong feelings of hopelessness and grief? Alzheimer’s is a progressive illness, so symptoms develop steadily over time. Similar to cancer, Alzheimer’s is better treated if detected early, when symptoms are mild or absent.
Here are several reasons to visit the doctor sooner rather than later if you have concerns about your loved one’s memory.
The Potential to Rule Out Other Treatable and Reversible Causes
There are many disorders other than Alzheimer’s disease that can have some of the same symptoms, and some of these conditions can be treated and even reversed. Often, the prognosis is dependent upon how soon the condition is recognized and treated. Insufficiency in vitamin B12, hydrocephalus, psychosis, thyroid issues and depression are a few examples of these conditions.
Improved Medication Efficacy With Early Treatment
In general, treatments that have previously been authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are more likely to be useful early on in the progression of the disease with the goal of maintaining the person’s existing functionality and delaying the progression of the illness — not curing the symptoms. While some people do respond rather well to drugs and claim an improvement while taking them, others show little to no benefit. But you’ll never know if your loved one is diagnosed too late.
More Time to Organize
The individual experiencing Alzheimer’s may be able to participate in the decision-making process regarding care and treatment if they receive a diagnosis while the condition is still in its early stages. This process may include things such as naming a medical power of attorney and a financial power of attorney; writing out a living will and discussing the person’s options and personal preferences, such as home health care and care facilities.
More Time to Make Memories
While dealing with a degenerative condition such as Alzheimer’s, some family members and friends make the conscious decision to document significant memories of the individual who has Alzheimer’s. This may be accomplished in a variety of methods, such as the use of text, photographs, video and other media. This memorabilia can be a fantastic way to remember your loved one, share their personality and life story with caretakers, and bring up memories while you are speaking with other members of the family.
Diamondback Healthcare Center’s Memory Care Pavilion provides 24/7 skilled nursing staff to patients in long-term residence with all forms of dementia. We provide a “person-centric” approach to care that focuses on comfort and dignity. Call us at (623) 303-2882 to schedule a visit.