Timely detection of memory loss or cognitive impairment offers many benefits for people with dementia, their families and physicians.
Benefits to the physician:
- Triggers a search for potentially treatable or reversible disorders
- Alerts physicians that treatment plans for other health conditions must factor in comprehension and compliance challenges faced by a person with dementia
- Alerts physicians of the need to avoid medications with anticholinergic effects, which further suppress activity in one of the chief neurotransmission systems affected by Alzheimer’s disease
View a list of drugs with anticholinergic properties - Provides time to address safety issues before accidents or emergencies occur
Benefits to the patient:
- May positively impact the individual by ensuring greater understanding and awareness of what is happening to him or her
- Provides an opportunity to take medications to address some of the cognitive changes
- Provides the patient and family with a framework for understanding and adapting to cognitive and behavioral changes; may reduce the tendency to blame or be impatient with the diagnosed individual
- Opens the door for the patient and family to take advantage of appropriate programs and services
- Alerts the patient and family to begin thinking about safety and security issues, including living arrangements, driving, cooking and managing medication
- Identifies the condition at a time when the patient can still participate in medical, legal and financial decisions and make proxy plans
- Can encourage exploration of options for job accommodations, early retirement or disability for individuals with younger-onset Alzheimer's before reduced performance jeopardizes employment and financial security.
