Checklist details Alzheimer's disease symptoms

We all get a little forgetful from time to time, but for people living with Alzheimer's disease, it's another story.

Alzheimer's is a disease of the brain. It destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia. It is estimated that as many as 5.3 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging; it gets worse over time and it is fatal. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's, but new treatments are on the horizon as a result of accelerating insight into the biology of the disease. Research has also shown that effective care and support can improve quality of life for individuals and their caregivers over the course of the disease from diagnosis to the end of life.

The cause of Alzheimer's disease remains largely unknown, although most experts agree that it likely develops as a result of multiple factors rather than a single cause. Age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer's. Most Americans with Alzheimer's disease are age 65 or older.

Because there is no single test for Alzheimer's, diagnosis usually involves a thorough medical history and physical examination as well as tests to assess memory and the overall function of the mind and nervous system.

Medications may temporarily delay memory decline and treat Alzheimer symptoms for some individuals, but none of the currently approved drugs is known to stop or prevent the disease. An important part of treatment is supportive care that helps individuals and their families come to terms with the diagnosis, obtain information and advice about treatment options, and maximize quality of life through the course of the illness.

The Alzheimer's Association has developed a checklist of common symptoms to help recognize the warning signs of Alzheimer's disease.

1. Memory loss

2. Problems with abstract thinking

3. Difficulty performing familiar tasks

4. Misplacing things

5. Problems with language

6. Changes in mood or behavior

7. Disorientation to time and place

8. Changes in personality

9. Poor or decreased judgment

10. Loss of initiative

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, consult a doctor. Early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or other dementias is an important step to getting the right treatment, care and support.

Lynda Metz is the director of community development at Bonner General Hospital. The information and statistics in this article were reprinted with permission from the Alzheimer's Association.