Memory Tests for Alzheimer's Fact or Fiction?

Find out why memory tests for Alzheimer's is not enough for a true diagnosis. Learn what to do if you think you or someone you care about may have Alzheimer's.

Understanding the difference between normal aging and Alzheimer's disease can be difficult in the early stages. Many people think memory tests for Alzheimer's will determine whether or not the disease is present.

Not True!

Alzheimer's is a complicated disease that occurs because of changes in the brain. Actually the brain over time becomes smaller. Portions of cells in the brain (neurons) actually become damaged and die. Currently there is no cure for Alzheimer's.

Memory Test for Alzheimer's Defining the Symptoms

Alzheimer's symptoms and changes normally associated with aging are very similar. To the untrained person and sometimes the professionals, the diagnosis of Alzheimer's can be difficult.

Dementia or the loss of intellectual functions like thinking, remembering, and logical reasoning are all symptoms of the early stages of Alzheimer's. Other symptoms such as mood changes, personality changes and behavioral changes may also be present.

Often time the person in the early stages of Alzheimer's may look and act healthy. Its those little changes that tend to be overlooked that are a result of developing Alzheimer's. For example, we all occasionally misplace things. Forgetting where we put items seems to occur more as we age.

With Alzheimer's there's a physical reason for it. In others, its merely a part of the aging process. Determining the difference can be difficult without seeking the help of a professional.

Its important to get the diagnosis as early as possible. There are medications that can delay the moderate and severe stages of Alzheimer's. While the symptoms of Alzheimer's cant be eliminated or totally reversed, there is help available. Prompt diagnosis is crucial for the person with Alzheimer's.

Often people in the early stages, wonder what's wrong with them still they don! 't seek medical advice. Why? The reasons are many. Some may think Well, its just a part of getting older. There's nothing I can do. Others may be embarrassed because of their mental state.

Family and friends of those in the early stages of Alzheimer's also have trouble helping. They may observe the changes and realize something's not right, but don't really know how to discuss it or approach the subject with the person that's affected. This can be a difficult situation.

If you're in the situation of dealing with a family member, try lightly approaching the subject. It may be something as simple as asking if they've had a physical this year.

You may have to be a bit more direct and frank. While you don't want to demean, or make the person feel they're losing it get them to seek help as soon as possible.

Dealing with aging relatives can be a troubling situation. Remaining independent and self-sufficient is important to the aging. Its important not to let fear of intrusion, stop you from offering to help.

By the same token, allowing independence as long as safely possible is best for the aging adult. Many people with aging parents have trouble finding the balance between intrusion and helping.

One way to minimize this problem is to spend more time with the parent. Becoming a more regular part of their lives can give you clues as to how much help they need. The disease of Alzheimer's progress through three stages, early, moderate, and severe.

If you have a relative in the early stages, its important to help them get the help they need. IT may be one of the last things you can do for them while they still have the ability to acknowledge your help.

If you need to learn more about the stages of alzheimer's or the causes of dementia click on over to http://www.Answers4Alzheimers.com.