According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than six million Americans are currently living with the disease. An early diagnosis can make a massive difference in the lives of both the patient and their loved ones. Early diagnosis allows people time to seek treatment, to plan for the future, and to adjust to the changes in function, mood and personality that can occur with the disease.
One of the principal arguments against an early diagnosis is that since there are currently no medications to reverse or cure Alzheimer’s disease, knowing only leads to despair for the person diagnosed and their loved ones. Currently, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications that focus on maintaining a person’s functioning capabilities by delaying disease progression. This does not reverse the disease, but allows a person with Alzheimer’s to live as normally as possible. Early treatment can slow the symptoms, helping individuals maintain their independence and memory for longer.
Many treatments are typically most effective for those in the early stages of the disease, and many clinical trials only accept patients in its earlier stages. Some treatments have been approved by the FDA and although these medications have varying degrees of effectiveness, people who are helped by them are thankful to have received their diagnosis early.
The diagnosis itself can — counterintuitively — relieve stress. As we know, Alzheimer’s disease causes many troubling symptoms, such as memory loss and drastic mood changes. These symptoms are disruptive, and not knowing the root cause can be highly stressful. A diagnosis can eliminate the stress that’s caused by the unknown. Both the person affected by the disease and their family can stop trying to find the cause of the symptoms and prepare for the journey ahead.
A diagnosis gives the person with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers more time to prepare. Those affected by Alzheimer’s require tremendous attention, support, and care. Because the disease affects many areas of life, one must devise a care plan for things such as living and care options, financial considerations, and legal matters. However, a family can proactively seek out all available opportunities by obtaining an early diagnosis, leading to higher-quality decisions and a smoother process.
Another significant benefit of an early diagnosis is the time it gives the person affected to take proactive measures to maintain a sense of identity. For instance, gathering tangible memories from precious photos, videos, and letters can extend long-term memory recall by providing mental cues. This is particularly important as the disease progresses. Recording these memories can help provide a semblance of identity and boost positive emotions.
If you’ve noticed some of these signs in yourself or in a loved one, don’t despair. Alzheimer’s can be a complex and challenging disease. But with an early diagnosis and good preparation, people can maintain their independence and quality of life for a longer amount of time.