Alzheimer's research recently made headlines again this week as the research team at Oregon Health and Science University got the green light to move forward with a new study, meant to help find early detection signs in Alzheimer's. This federally funded study has many excited about the possible improvements in early Alzheimer's detection, however conclusive results of this study are still far off.
While scientists are focusing on the future of Alzheimer's detection, care and treatment, there are still millions currently living with this disease today and thousands more getting diagnosed by the day. For these individuals, the importance is not in the future of Alzheimer's research, but in the present. For people today, worried about a possible Alzheimer's diagnosis either for themselves or their loved ones, early diagnosis is one of the most powerful tools they have towards slowing down the progress of Alzheimer's disease.
This is why everyone today, particularly individuals with elderly adults in their lives, know the top warning signs of Alzheimer's disease, how to spot them and when to contact a doctor for more information on dementia. The Alzheimer's Association published these warning signs to help the public take action when it comes to early detection.
- Disruptive Memory Loss: There is forgetfulness and then there is disruptive memory loss. Understanding the difference between the two can be the difference between spotting Alzheimer's and not. We all forget things from time to time but when memory loss impacts a person's ability to function normally, it becomes a problem. If you notice someone you love forgetting information they just learned, asking for the same information over and over again or relying on memory aids, there may be a problem.