Alzheimer's Disease: 10 signs to watch for

As adults age, one very significant fear is the possibility of losing their cognitive functions through Alzheimer's Disease (AD). In the United States, 4 million to 5 million people over age 65 are currently living with clinical AD, and this figure is projected to rise to 13.8 million by 2050. The prospects are grim, as the thought of losing control of who you are, your independence and having to rely on others for your every need can be daunting.

According to Dr. Ann Hanley, attending neurologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/ Hudson Valley Hospital, "Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that destroys memory and other important mental functions." Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, a group of brain disorders that results in the loss of intellectual and social skills, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of all dementias.

In Alzheimer's disease, the brain cells themselves degenerate and die, causing a steady decline in memory and mental function.

"The first signs of Alzheimer's can be a range of mild symptoms, such as forgetfulness, but as the disease progresses, more cognitive skills are compromised," says Dr. Hanley.

According to the Alzheimer's Organization, there are 10 signs to watch for:

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life: forgetting important dates, repeating the same information, etc.

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems: such as balancing checkbooks, following recipes, etc.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks: at home, at work or at leisure

4. Confusion with time or place: losing track of dates, seasons, forgetting where they are or how they got there

5. Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships: difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast

6. Problems with words in speaking or writing: trouble following or joining a conversation; struggling with vocabulary

7. Misplacing things: and losing the ability to retrace steps

8. Decreased or poor judgment

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities

10. Changes in mood and personality – becoming fearful, suspicious, depressed, anxious or irritable

Signs that something may be wrong is usually first noted by family, friends or even the patient themselves. "Early treatment is key in that it can slow the progression of the disease," notes Dr. Hanley, "Diagnosis by a medical professional includes a thorough medical history, mental status testing, a physical and neurological exam, and tests to rule out other causes of dementia-like symptoms."

Doctors and psychologists have been grappling with the causes and effects of Alzheimer's, and more urgently, what can be done to prevent or cure it. They believe it results from a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors that affect the brain over time.

While AD is most commonly associated with old-age, up to five percent of the more than five million Americans with it have what is termed "early onset" Alzheimer's. "It is exceptional for AD to occur before age 60," says Dr. Hanley. "There are inherited forms that routinely present before age 65, and frequently in the fifth decade of life or earlier. These account for less than one percent of all cases of AD." She adds, "The most clearly established risk factors for AD are a family history of dementia, and in rare cases, certain genetic mutations that impact the chemistry of the brain and virtually guarantee a person will develop the disease."

Certain medications are available for patients with mild to moderate, or even advanced dementia, but adapting the living situation to the needs of a person with Alzheimer's is an important part of any treatment plan. Establishing and strengthening routine habits and minimizing memory-demanding tasks can make life easier and can help slow the process. Dr. Hanley makes it a point to underscore that having trouble with memory does not necessarily mean you have Alzheimer's, as many health issues can cause problems with memory and thinking. "When dementia-like symptoms are caused by treatable conditions — such as depression, drug interactions, thyroid problems, excess use of alcohol or certain vitamin deficiencies — they may be reversed."

Lastly, the tried-and-true prescription for good health can apply to cognitive health as well. "Studies have suggested that higher levels of physical and mental activity, as well as regular social interaction and intellectual stimulation, may help maintain cognitive function during aging," says Dr. Hanley.

To find a physician, call 1-800-482-4842.

This story is provided and presented by our sponsor: NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.