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Question:

My older sister has been the "glue" that held our family together ever since our parents died at a rather young age. She had a successful career and was very active in the community until a few years ago. Over the last few months her whole demeanor has changed. She forgets about family celebrations and then claims no one told her about them. She has had two minor car accidents but insists neither was her fault. Three of our parent’s siblings had Alzheimer’s so now I’m worried my sister may be facing the same fate. What should we be looking for?

Answer:

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative disease of the brain resulting in memory loss, impaired thinking, and personality changes. Brain damage influences the way people act and react. As comprehension falters, emotional and behavioral problems may soar. Not everyone with the disease exhibits behavioral problems, but these problems are a common indication of the disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association lists ten warning signs of the disease:

>Recent memory loss affecting job skills
>Difficulty accomplishing familiar tasks
>Struggling with finding the right word
>Disorientation to place and time
>Poor judgment
>Problems with abstract thinking
>Misplacing items
>Altered mood or behavior
>Changes in personality
>Loss of initiative

Don’t automatically jump to the conclusion your mother’s unusual behavior indicates she has Alzheimer’s disease. The fact that several family members have been afflicted with the disease perhaps is indicative of a genetic factor—although it could be a result of a dozen other conditions.

It is extremely important for anyone experiencing changes/impairments in memory and cognitive or behavioral patterns to get a thorough physical and neurological evaluation. There is no individual test for Alzheimer’s. The best approach is to undergo a series of tests to exclude other conditions.

There are many benefits to the evaluation. No one should suffer needlessly. With the onset of dementia every attempt should be made to determine the originating factor.

Dementia could result from depression, drug interaction, thyroid problems or hormone disorders, nutritional deficiencies, and systemic illnesses. Symptoms can be reversed or halted with early diagnosis and treatment.

Regardless of the final diagnosis, emphasis should focus on making the most of the individual’s remaining capabilities. With a little planning, it may be possible to maximize the quality of a person’s life.

Are you in a dilemma caring for an aging family member? Our Eldercare Advisors are available for no cost consultations by calling 781-324-7705.

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