Consider This Scenario

Is your loved one showing signs of memory loss or cognitive decline? Maybe they’re forgetting important dates or appointments, misplacing objects, or having trouble with everyday tasks that used to be easy. You might also notice changes in their mood or behavior, such as increased confusion, anxiety, or irritability. These changes can be unsettling and difficult to deal with, both for your loved one and for you.

At LivWell Seniors, we understand how overwhelming it can be to watch someone you care about struggle with memory loss or cognitive decline. That’s why we encourage you to seek a diagnosis as soon as possible. A diagnosis can help you and your loved one better understand the changes that are occurring and plan for the future. It can also help you access treatments and support services that can improve quality of life.

We know that the prospect of seeking a diagnosis can be scary, but it’s important to remember that early detection is key. By seeking a diagnosis, you can take control of the situation and ensure that you or your loved one receives the care and support they need. Remember, you’re not alone. LivWell Seniors is here to support you and your loved one. We also encourage anyone concerned about memory loss to read this informative article by a member valued member of our Caring Network, the Alzheimer’s Association, which provides useful information on the benefits of early detection and the steps to take when seeking a diagnosis for memory loss or cognitive decline.

Together, we can create a plan for the future that will ensure the best possible outcome for you and your loved one. So don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance.

An early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s provides a range of benefits for the individuals who are diagnosed.

Medical Benefits

Getting checked by your doctor can help determine what’s causing symptoms. If Alzheimer’s is the cause, an early diagnosis allows you:

Access to treatment options: Current medications do not cure Alzheimer’s, but two treatments – aducanumab (Aduhelm™) and lecanemab (Leqembi™) – demonstrate that removing beta-amyloid, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease, from the brain reduces cognitive and functional decline in people living with early Alzheimer’s. (Access to aducanumab is limited, as is Medicaid coverage of the drug. Ask your doctor about availability.) Others may help lessen symptoms, such as memory loss and confusion, for a limited time. An early Alzheimer’s diagnosis provides you with a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An opportunity to participate in clinical trials: An early diagnosis makes individuals eligible for a wider variety of clinical trials, which advance research and may provide medical benefits.

A chance to prioritize your health: Some lifestyle changes, such as controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.

Emotional and Social Benefits

Receiving an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis may help lessen anxieties about why you are experiencing symptoms. You and your family also have the opportunity to maximize your time together and access resources and support programs.

More Time to Plan for the Future

Do you know who you would want to make decisions for you in the event you’re no longer able to? An earlier diagnosis also allows you to be open with your family and support network about what you want during each stage of the disease. This can give you peace of mind, reduce the burden on family members and prevent disagreements.

Planning ahead allows you to express your wishes about legal, financial and end-of-life decisions. You and your family will be able to review and update legal documents, discuss finances and property, and identify your care preferences. You can also address potential safety issues, such as driving or wandering, ahead of time.

Cost Savings

Early diagnosis saves costs of medical and long-term care for both families and the U.S. government. Among all Americans alive today, if those who will get Alzheimer’s disease were diagnosed when they had mild cognitive impairment, before dementia, it would collectively save approximately $7 trillion1 in health and long-term care costs.