Stay Healthy While Enjoying Your Summer!
JUL 19, 2024Keep yourself energized with healthy foods so you can feel your best all summer long.
Read MoreDiagnosing Alzheimer’s can be challenging because there is currently no single test or scan which can detect the disease. In fact, a definitive diagnosis is only possible after death through the examination of brain tissue.
It is essential to go through the diagnostic process, but problems with your memory or thinking can be caused by different things – many of which can be treated or even reversed. Possible non-Alzheimer’s diagnoses for memory problems include:
While many of the conditions which affect memory can be treated or reversed, Alzheimer’s disease cannot be stopped or reversed. But the earliest and clearest possible diagnosis of possible or probable Alzheimer’s dementia makes it possible to:
Doctors will complete a thorough exam of the nervous system in order to get the best possible picture of what’s going on with thinking and memory, and they may perform other tests and assessments, including:
Specialists who may be involved in the process include, geriatricians who specialize in the medical care of older adults, geriatric psychiatrists who specialize in older adults’ mental/emotional problems, neurologists who specialize in brain and central nervous system abnormalities and neuropsychologists who specialize in how nervous system diseases contribute to mental disorders.
People with memory and cognitive problems are typically seen every six to 12 months to monitor changes in memory, thinking, judgement, language, problem-solving, personality and movement. Tests may be repeated to gauge how much memory and functioning have changed.
If you have questions or concerns about Alzheimer’s disease and the diagnosis process for you or a loved one, please visit with a primary care provider.
Keep yourself energized with healthy foods so you can feel your best all summer long.
Read MoreForgetfulness is a common concern, especially as we age. However, it's important to distinguish between normal age-related memory changes and potential signs of dementia.
Read MoreAs a primary care provider, I’ve noticed that many men are under-concerned about what I call the big three – blood pressure, cholesterol and type 2 diabetes.
Read MoreWhen you need local health information from a trusted source, turn to the CHI Health Better You eNewsletter.