November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a reminder of a life-changing disease that affects more than 6.2 million Americans. Alzheimer’s is just one form of dementia. Here’s what you need to know.
What's the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?
Dementia is a general term for conditions that cause problems and changes with memory, language, thinking, social skills, problem-solving and mood and emotions, and Alzheimer’s is the most common kind of dementia, says Michelle Dietz, MD, MetroHealth Department Chair of Geriatric Medicine.
Other common types include:
Doctors aren’t sure exactly why someone develops Alzheimer’s. Those with the disease have clumps of beta-amyloid plaque in their brain. Doctors can see these plaques on PET scans and can measure beta-amyloid protein through special lab tests.
- Who is at risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia?
- Can you prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia?
- When to get care?
The biggest risk factor for any kind of dementia is older age. And while it’s rare for anyone under age 60 to have dementia, it’s also not “just a normal part of aging,” though some slowing in recall time and difficulty multitasking is normal as you reach older age.
Things that can increase your risk of dementia include:
- A family history of Alzheimer’s or another kind of dementia.
- Genetic factors that can predispose you to dementia.
- Prior head injury.
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity.
- Not getting enough sleep on a regular basis.
- Social isolation.
No, but several important lifestyle changes may help reduce your risk of cognitive decline:
- Stay physically active. Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic activity each week. Check with your doctor what exercises are right for you.
- Challenge your mind. Learning new skills may help protect your cognitive health. Try word puzzles, math games, dance classes, learning a new language, even playing video games.
- Eat a healthful, balanced diet. This also helps you manage other conditions that contribute to dementia.
- Keep other medical problems well controlled. This includes treating high blood pressure and diabetes.
- Get quality sleep. Adults should get at least seven hours each night.
- Maintain good social interactions and relationships. Meet new people through volunteering, senior centers or church groups.
There’s no cure for Alzheimer’s but doctors have several treatments to help manage symptoms. Most are only available when someone is in the early stages of dementia. So, it’s critical to seek medical help as soon as you spot the signs in yourself or a loved one.
- Memory loss, especially of recent information.
- Difficulty planning and problem solving.
- Keeping track of important dates or routine activities, such as bill paying.
- Struggle with finding the right words or maintaining a conversation.
- Mood or behavior changes.
If you notice these in your loved one, suggest seeing a doctor without making a diagnosis yourself. Sometimes there’s something else that could be causing memory problems, such as thyroid issues or medications.
MetroHealth Geriatric Medicine
The MetroHealth Geriatric Specialists offer compassionate care through our Senior Health Outpatient program. For appointments, call 216-957-2100 or visit: metrohealth.org/geriatrics
