The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider. While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.
The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests. If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.
One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause. If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time. Also they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.
An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit. In addition recent research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”
Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait. Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care. The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.
MorningStar of Arvada offers independent living and assisted living as well as memory care. Through a range of resort-style amenities and Life Enrichment programs, residents are offered a quality of life other senior living communities simply cannot match. Please visit our website to learn more about our community and our dedication to serving others.
MorningStar of Arvada offers the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve as we work toward creating a true home for residents amidst a serene setting. Visit our website for more information on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO.
Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked
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