.JPG)
How many people have Alzheimer's disease in the US?
According to a new report by the Alzheimer's Accociation around 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and this disorder will account for nearly 100,000 deaths this year (www.alz.org/national/documents/report_alzfactsfigures2009.pdf). AD is considered a disease of aging; the longer you live, the more likely you are to have it, with AD occurring in up to 40% of those over 85. Very few people under the age of 65 develop AD, and for those that do it is most likely due to a genetic factor. On average people live with AD for 8-10 years, with a gradual decline over this period.
I'm having problems with my memory, I must have Alzheimer's disease, mustn't I?
Having some memory impairment in your 60’s does not necessarily mean that you are going to get AD. Of those that develop memory problems only around 1% will actually develop AD at this age. Further on from memory problems is ‘mild cognitive impairment’, which around 4% of those in their 60’s will develop. This includes not only memory problems, but small difficulties with balance and coordination, and the ability to perform cognitive tasks, for instance working out the right change you’d receive at the supermarket. Up to a third of people with this problem over age 65 will develop AD, but over 40% will return to normal.
How can I tell if I might have Alzheimer's disease? What should I do?
There are ten main signs people in their 60’s onwards should look out for, as detailed by The Alzheimer’s Association (http://www.alz.org). You can read more about them here: 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6929-San-Diego-Mental-Health-Examiner~y2009m4d19-The-10-warning-signs-of-Alzheimers-disease
Of course having one or two of these warning signs does not mean you definitely have AD, however if a few of them keep occurring, it is time to visit the doctor. If you doctor does suspect you have a problem then she or he should send you to a specialist who will perform tests where they will ask questions, get you to work things out, maybe perform some tasks on a computer, and possibly scans to see what is happening in your brain.
There are a number of resources for people in San Diego who have AD, and for those caring for a person in this position. Some of them can be found in my article on 'Alzheimer's disease resources in San Diego County': www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6929-San-Diego-Mental-Health-Examiner~y2009m4d19-Alzheimers-disease-resources-in-San-Diego-County
Comments
Check the figures. Nearly 5.2 mollion Americans have Alzheimer's disease
Thank's Susan, I've only just seen the new report, I'll amend those figures accordingly.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!