Alzheimer's disease is a mystery to many people. Often mis-called "old-timer's disease," this affliction seems to come out of nowhere, leaving the victim eventually unable to recognize his loved ones or even himself. Some questions about Alzheimer's have an answer; others are still being studied by scientists around the world. The following questions relate only to cases of Alzheimer's disease; similar conditions exist--with different causes--and only a physician can make a diagnosis of Alzheimer's.
Do All Older People Eventually Get Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative neurological disorder that causes memory difficulties, impaired judgment, decline in physical function and the loss of nerve cells in the brain. It is the most common form of dementia. Not all old people get Alzheimer's, but the risk does increase with age. Some people in their 80s, 90s and beyond face cognitive difficulties that may seem similar to Alzheimer's, such as vascular dementia or stroke, while many remain cognitively intact throughout their lives.
What Are the Signs of Alzheimer's?
The Alzheimer's Association lists memory loss as one of the cardinal signs of Alzheimer's. This memory loss must be significant enough to disrupt life, such as forgetting your name or address or how to prepare a basic meal.
Other signs include personality changes, an inability to perform complex tasks such as balancing a checkbook, exercising poor judgment, difficulty finding the right words to say and withdrawing from beloved activities.
What Causes It?
Scientists don't have one specific cause for Alzheimer's disease. Some cases have been found to be genetic, but most cases are not. Plaques and tangles are found in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease, but the underlying cause of these has not been definitively determined.
Is There a Cure?
There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but there are several prescription medications that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for use during the various stages of the disease. The Mayo Clinic lists memantine, donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine as drugs currently approved for treatment of Alzheimer's. These medications can slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life. Clinical trials are underway for medicines that may one day halt the progression or offer a cure.
Is It Fatal?
Alzheimer's disease is considered to be a fatal illness. In fact, the Alzheimer's Association states that it is now the sixth leading cause of death. People often live 10 or more years after diagnosis, however, and many pass away from afflictions other than Alzheimer's.
What If I Think My Parent Has It?
If you think that you or your loved one may have Alzheimer's disease, make an appointment with your general practitioner. She may make a diagnosis or make a referral to a gerontologist, neurologist or psychiatrist who specializes in Alzheimer's disease. To make a diagnosis, the doctor considers the symptoms you describe, the results of mental exams and sometimes the results of diagnostic tests that look at the brain. These may include a PET, MRI or CT scan. The doctor may diagnose your parent with Alzheimer's disease, another disorder that causes memory loss, or normal age-related changes. If a diagnosis of Alzheimer's is made, medication is usually prescribed, and counseling may be prescribed for the patient if needed. Family members occasionally seek counseling or support group services as well.
The Alzheimer's Association offers many services to patients and families. It maintains a large website and also has many local chapters around the country. As well as guidance on the basics of Alzheimer's disease, it provides treatment information, care-giving advice and practical advice on common insurance and financial issues. The Alzheimer's Association has a 24/7 Helpliine for patients, caregivers and the public; the number is 800-272-3900.
Can It Be Prevented?
Nothing is guaranteed to prevent Alzheimer's, but staying physically and mentally active is felt to be protective. A healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy oils and nuts instead of high levels of saturated fats may slow the onset of Alzheimer's. Supplements or medications that claim to prevent Alzheimer's should be looked at with caution. Consult your physician before taking any product that claims to prevent or cure the disease.
