The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss 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.
The top reason to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s is an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment. If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain that while there is no cure for the disease, there are medications that “demonstrate removing beta-amyloid, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease, from the brain reduces cognitive and functional decline in people living with early Alzheimer’s.” Other treatment options can lessen the symptoms, including memory loss and confusion, for a limited time.
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.”
Another important consideration is the additional time an earlier diagnosis will give you 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.
Along with assisted living, Boulder, CO’s MorningStar community provides holistic memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. With activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about trusted senior living at MorningStar of Boulder.
MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and senior living Boulder, CO offers.
