Today’s St. Louis Post Dispatch had an interesting article on the topic of the importance early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease and the  possible treatments available, that can reduce some of the early symptoms.  It goes on to speak to the fact that over half of those struggling with this or a related condition do not seek professional guidance, nor do they bring this to their doctor’s attention for referral to a geriatrician.  See the full article here.. http://tinyurl.com/ngk8ma

Caring for family members who are showing signs of memory loss can be very difficult. This article points to the fact that over half of those struggling with this condition do not get help. Avoidance of a diagnosis has two downsides. Firstly, medication and referrals to community resources are less likely accessed if the person with the memory loss is not seen by a geriatrician or multidisciplanary team of geriatric professionals. Secondly, the family is unnecessarily struggling alone, until they reach out to the Alzheimer’s Association or other local eldercare resource.

For both these reasons, I hope this excellent article has helped at least one family make up their mind to make an appointment with their doctor sooner than later. Everyone wins. Staying in the dark only extends the period of time a family unnecessarily goes through this alone. Sylvia Nissenboim, LCSW