Identifying Alzheimer’s Disease

The eight behaviors below represent the brain’s ability to learn and manage memory. The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is concluded by a doctor recognizing that two or more areas of brain function is having a problem. Although, this doesn’t prove sufficient enough evidence for Alzheimer’s. First, causes for other thinking problems must be ruled out.

• Challenges with memory or reasoning
• Learning something new is a challenge
• Trouble with finances
• Not remembering the month or year
• Lack of judgement
• Issue with appointments
• Lack of interest in hobbies
• Repeating the same thing

Testing

Different facets of Brain function can be assessed through office-based thinking tests. Although, it has been shown that asking the family about certain behaviors can be effective in spotting Alzheimer’s. A questionnaire including the behaviors above have been tested by dementia experts, called the AD8 informant interview.

• Family should answer AD8 questionnaire

Family involvement

Obtaining  information from family members helps the doctor decide whether the behaviors are persisting or worsening. These facts are important because office-based tests can only provide a depiction of the patient’s brain on that day.

Behavioral observations from the family are so important because it relays practical information of people’s daily lives. Knowing what a person has been experiencing makes it easier to help make decisions for the care and safety of a parent.   

• Important for family to provide information on observations of the parent

Getting the Right Care

Many general practitioners aren’t knowledgeable in assessing Alzheimer’s. This leads to troubled families having their concerns waved and being told it’s a normal part of aging.  

This can happen due to families not being clear in voicing their concerns, leading doctors to do more investigative research on their own. Although, office visits are typically rushed and doctors can’t assess all the needed information to diagnose Alzheimer’s.

• Important for the family to voice their concerns to the doctor

Detailed information

It’s important to provide the doctor with detailed information, so they can take further action. It’s easier to know what help is needed by providing specifics on observations. It can be frustrating not knowing if a parent has Alzheimer’s, so providing this information can help the doctor understand the cause and what to do next.

• Providing specifics on observations can help the doctor find the right care

Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas

Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.

We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.