Home Doctor: Practical Medicine for Every Household
There is no specific test to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Having several relatives with the disease can give us a genome clue; however, it is not always 100% reliable. In any case, we must be aware of the early signs of the disease in order to identify them and go to a specialist. In the early stages, memory loss is common as well as difficulty finding frequently used words and names of family members. Behavioral changes such as sudden changes in the sleep cycle and sadness for no apparent reason, among others, are also signs that we should take into account. Neurologists and psychologists are the professionals who can give the most precise diagnosis. Generally, with an adequate questioning, one can have the suspicion and indicate lifestyle changes and some treatment if there is the presenting of some symptoms, such as insomnia or anxiety. In the elderly, a regular visit to the geriatrician is important; since he or she specializes in the problems of the elderly, he or she can identify changes that may go unnoticed by others.
Treatments There is no specific treatment for dementia. Lifestyle changes that make the patient’s quality of life more comfortable are recommended at first, rather than drugs. When drugs are used, it is done in order to treat specific symptoms, for example, depression or anxiety, and not to improve the state of dementia. The changes in daily life that I am referring to consist of creating routines that can be easily followed, both for the home and for the street. Dementia patients should always be accompanied, even if the symptoms are mild. Problems such as not remembering how to get home or to turn off the kitchen appliances are common and can occur at any stage of the disease. Family collaboration is of the utmost importance. When faced with a patient with memory loss, we must have a lot of patience. Remember that this person is not trying to bother you or play tricks on you; they genuinely do not remember the most normal things, so getting angry is not the best way to help them. Try to create a comfortable environment at home where there are characteristics that this person recognizes. When there is frustration or sadness about having forgotten something, help him or her to come up with another activity that will distract him or her. Unfortunately, dementia due to chronic illness inevitably progresses. As the years go by, the patient will become less and less independent. There are support groups for relatives of patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia that are very helpful in sharing experiences and tips.
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Alzheimer and dementia support group
