November is national Alzheimer’s Disease month. While we do not currently have any enrolling studies for Alzheimer’s Disease, we so have one that will be opening in early 2022 and we offer free memory screenings to the community for those 50+ years old who are worried about memory issues.
Alzheimer’s Disease as defined by the APA is “a chronic brain disease that gradually erodes an individual’s memory, intellectual abilities and personality.” Additionally, because of the often debilitating nature of the disease, it can take a toll on mental health and other aspects of physical health. This is why we want to spread awareness on this topic!
Who is at Risk For Developing Alzheimer’s Disease?
No one is necessarily immune to Alzheimer’s; however, there are risk factors, including but not limited to:
- Age
- Genetics/family history of Alzheimer’s
- Head injury
- Some heart/vascular conditions
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease:
Alzheimer’s can come with a wide variety of symptoms. The symptoms that are present in one person may not be present in another. Some of the more common symptoms include:
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Difficulty understanding visual images
- Difficulty speaking/writing
- Poor judgement
- Social withdrawal
- Mood/personality changes
- Difficulty problem solving
Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s Disease:
While there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, there are ways to help manage some of the symptoms that come with it. Aducanumab is a medication that was most recently approved for the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease, and new research surrounding Alzheimer’s is evolving every day.
Additionally, some options that are typically used for symptom management include medication for memory/cognition, sleep management, etc.
For a more exhaustive list of management options available for those with Alzheimer’s Disease, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website!
If You Are Worried About Your Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease or Develop Any of the Above Symptoms:
- Contact your doctor and express your concerns
- If you are 50 years or older and are experiencing memory loss, contact us at 610-891-7200 for a free memory screening
- Visit the Alzheimer’s Association website to find additional resources for Alzheimer’s Disease
- Know that you are not alone! Help is always out there.
How To Help Loved Ones:
If someone you know is struggling with Alzheimer’s Disease, there are several things you can do to support them. Some of these are:
- Help them seek care – It is hard to know where to turn for help when someone may be struggling with Alzheimer’s. Having someone there to help them talk to their doctor can be immensely helpful.
- Be patient – Sometimes those with Alzheimer’s just need a little more time to process and complete certain tasks.
- Listen – Being a listening ear when someone is struggling can be one of the most powerful things.
References
American Psychological Association
Causes and Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s- Alzheimer’s Association
10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s- Alzheimer’s Association
