Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease

Dementia is a condition that is caused by the progressive loss of intellectual functions. Although many conditions can cause dementia, Alzheimer's is the most common. Alzheimer's disrupts the way the brain works, causing problems with thought control, memory, language, and judgment. Eventually, patients have difficulty with normal everyday activities. Scientists are still trying to determine what causes the disease, although, inheritance plays some role.

Approximately 4 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. In Alabama, it is estimated that 78,000 people suffer from dementia. Symptoms usually begin after age 65, and the risk increases with age. Alzheimer's can affect younger people, although that is much less common. Dementia afflicts both men and women in all racial, religious, and socioeconomic groups.

Today there are treatments that can help the patient and medications that may help delay the progression of symptoms. Information and education can help families learn to cope and care for their loved ones.

HOW IS ALZHEIMER'S DIAGNOSED?

Physicians can diagnose Alzheimer's correctly 80 - 90% of the time. An autopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. A medical workup of dementia includes:

• taking a history of the problems of the cognitive and functional difficulties
• family history
• physical exam
• blood test
• mental examination
• CT or MRI of the brain