Learn more during Alzheimer's Awareness Month
As our population ages, it is estimated by the year 2030 one in five adults will be considered elderly. We anticipate a similar increase will occur in the incidence of Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia, a progressive deterioration of the brain, which gradually destroys one's ability to think clearly. This lack of cognition results in the loss of memory, everyday living skills, and eventually, the loss of communication.
Although there is no known cause of Alzheimer’s disease, individuals over the age of 65 and those with a family history of Alzheimer’s are at a greater risk of developing the disease. The likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s doubles every five years once a person reaches the age of 65. By age 85, individuals have nearly a 50% chance of developing the disease.
Some of the latest Alzheimer’s research suggests maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising, maintaining an optimal body weight, and avoiding tobacco, seems to reduce the likelihood of developing this disease. Obesity during your forties seems to increase your risk of developing Alzheimer's.
Alzheimer's disease is one of many forms of dementia. This diagnostic process should be initiated when a person exhibits changes in memory, behavior, or emotional state. A mini-mental status exam, which is performed in a physician’s office, can be used as a screening tool. Testing for Alzheimer’s can be a long and detailed process and patients are often frightened by changes in their memory and, as a result, resist evaluation. So, physicians are working with families and patients to overcome this obstacle, because they know early diagnosis is the key to treating the disorder.
Many medications are now available to try alone or in combination to treat Alzheimer's and slow the progression of the disease. Early diagnosis is important to provide the maximum benefit of the medication. Also, studies show that strong family and social support have a powerful impact on slowing the deterioration process.
In order to prevent this disease, it is imperative to engage in a healthy lifestyle of exercising; maintain a healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight; and avoid tobacco. Early screening and diagnosis improves the effect of treatment and slows the progression of this disease. Talk to your doctor about screening tests and the mini-mental status exams.
Medical West Health Center Parkwest Clinic is now also offering Alzheimer’s screening during regular business hours. Please call 205-481-8530 to schedule an appointment.