According to the National Institute on Aging, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia and is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States. Over 6 million Americans and over 55 million people around the globe suffer from this disease. This brain disorder progressively destroys memory and other vital brain functions, leaving those affected eventually unable to perform simple, everyday tasks. Individuals 65 and older are the most at risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
There are three stages of Alzheimer’s: mild, moderate, and severe. You may notice one or more of these signs and symptoms in each stage.
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Wandering or getting lost
- Difficulty solving problems
- Difficulty performing familiar tasks
- Struggling to speak or write
- Misplacing items
- Poor judgment
- Changes in mood and personality
If you are concerned that you or a family member may have Alzheimer’s or another dementia, it is best to schedule a doctor’s appointment. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, physicians will diagnose Alzheimer’s through medical history, mental status tests, physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.
There is unfortunately no cure for Alzheimer’s at this time, but there are medications that manage the progression of the disease and ongoing clinical trials that will hopefully lead to a cure. Find treatment options here.
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. This month-long observance is intended to educate people on Alzheimer’s and other dementias, assist individuals and their families who are dealing with these diseases, and raise awareness to help find a cure. Find ways that you can help raise awareness on the Alzheimer’s Association website.
At Rutherford’s Best Doctors, we can help connect you to the right medical professional in Rutherford County. Give us a call at (615) 869-0030 for more information.