Don’t Wait to Report Memory Problems

We’ve come a long way in our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease since the discovery of the condition in the early 1900s, and we’re learning more every day. There are currently almost 100 disease-modifying treatments in clinical trials. However, we still have a way to go when it comes to how people view the condition. Unfortunately, there still exists some stigma around Alzheimer's that might prevent people from getting the care they need.

“People are hesitant; they are afraid of the unknown. But it’s important to get early support,” said Right at Home franchise owner Jim Gall. Alzheimer’s Disease is something he’s very passionate about. Jim has been active with the Alzheimer’s Association for 11 years, and chair of the Midland, Michigan Walk to End Alzheimer’s for six years.

The occasional lapse in memory—like forgetting where the car keys are—happens to everyone occasionally. But these instances of slipping cognition may weigh heavier on someone who has a history of Alzheimer’s disease in their family. They may even be more hesitant than someone without a family history of dementia to seek care for their cognitive issues. But experts urge people to report memory problems to their doctor as soon as possible.

Only 25% of older adults experiencing memory problems report their symptoms to their primary care provider. A sense of fear or denial may cause some people to mask their symptoms, but it’s best to bring these concerns to the attention of medical professionals. Family members may also downplay memory problems or personality changes, chalking them up to anxiety, irritability, or the regular process of aging. Telling a doctor about these symptoms offers many benefits:

Rule out other conditions. Thyroid problems, depression, sleep disorders and vitamin deficiency can all mimic the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. And if the diagnosis is dementia, it’s important for doctors to identify the type of dementia. Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia all have different causes and treatments.

“A urinary tract infection in an older person can mimic cognitive decline,” Jim says. “You deal with that, and then the person is back to their baseline level of health.”

Plan ahead. After a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, families will want to make sure they have a plan for when the disease progresses. That means having an advance care directive, a healthcare power of attorney, and plans for care support and end-of-life decisions. Families may seek the help of a lawyer to help interpret laws that may vary by state.

Get the best treatment. Delaying diagnosis also means delaying treatment. While there is currently no known cure, lifestyle changes, medication, and memory support strategies can slow the progression of the disease.

Make safe decisions. Without a diagnosis, people with Alzheimer’s may do dangerous activities like driving or providing care for another person. Getting a formal diagnosis will help families and patients understand what precautions to take to keep their loved one safe.

In-home care can help keep older adults as independent as possible early stages of Alzheimer’s, as an in-home caregiver can monitor for changes that would lead to lifestyle changes like giving up driving. Additionally, they can aid with transportation as their client’s needs change.

“One of our very first clients was diagnosed with dementia,” Jim says. “He would get up and forget his meds or forget to eat. So we came in and made him breakfast and made sure he got his medication. This support helped him to be able to stay in the home he built for his wife as long as possible.”

Foster understanding. As with any life-changing illness, there are stages of grief that come with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Support groups and education for both the affected person and their families can help them understand the changes to come.

“It's very important for family members to educate themselves about how Alzheimer’s and dementia progress and be prepared going forward. A lot of people don’t understand why mom can remember things from childhood with vivid memory but can’t remember last week,” Jim explains. He recommends the Alzheimer’s Association as a resource for understanding the disease and getting help in the form of support groups or grief therapy.

Caregiver health is important, and that includes mental health. Pay attention to memory changes that don’t feel right and share these concerns with your doctor. The best options for treating and managing any health condition start with giving priority to recognizing changes and sharing them with a physician.

Contact Jim if you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with cognitive decline and learn about the ways Right at Home can help you stay safe and independent as long as possible.