Risk factors
According to the Alzheimer's Association, age is the primary risk factor for developing Alzheimer's.
From the age of 65, the risk of developing Alzheimer's doubles every 5 years. By age 85, a person has a 50 percent chance of developing Alzheimer's.
Another risk factor is family history or genetics. A person is more likely to develop Alzheimer's if they have an immediate family member with the disease. If more than one person in the family has had Alzheimer's, the genetic risk increases.
Researchers are still unsure why Alzheimer's develops at an early age in some people. However, they have identified rare genes in some people who experience Alzheimer's in their 30s, 40s, and 50s.
If a person experiences one or more of the symptoms listed above, they should speak to their doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis might help slow the progression of the disease.
There is no standard test to diagnose Alzheimer's, so a doctor will make a diagnosis based on several factors.
A doctor will ask a person about the symptoms and concerns. The doctor will also review a person's family history, specifically looking for a history of Alzheimer's and dementia. It may help to bring a loved one to the doctor's office for support.
After an initial review of the person's symptoms and family history, a doctor may order medical tests, including a neurological exam and brain imaging.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, as there is still no cure for Alzheimer's disease.
There are some medications available that may help with memory loss. These are most effective if started early on in the disease's progression.
Doctors can also provide recommendations and medications to help a person who is experiencing related health issues, such as insomnia, which may be contributing to memory problems.
A person may also benefit from talking to a counselor about any behavioural changes they experience. Also, some medications are available to help with symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Supporting a loved one
A person can support a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's in many different ways. Some recommendations include:
· Learning about Alzheimer's disease to understand the symptoms better.
· Participating in activities with the person as often as possible.
· Discussing the changing relationship with a counsellor or other trusted person.
· Talking to the person about concrete ways to help, such as by preparing meals or driving them to appointments.
· Connecting with other people through support networks.
Outlook
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but treatment can help in some ways. Early detection may help slow the progression of the disease but will not prevent it.
A person is most at risk of developing Alzheimer's as they age, especially if they have a family history of the disease. If a person suspects they or a loved one is developing Alzheimer's, they should speak to a doctor.
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