Determining one’s risk for Alzheimer’s is a complex challenge many medical professionals have worked on for years. The assessment is made more difficult since experts agree that there isn’t just one thing that increases someone’s risk. For seniors, issues with cognitive functioning, including a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, are perhaps one of their biggest fears. That being said, loved ones and elder care providers can work together to ensure they’re doing what they can to maintain the health of the seniors in their care.
Continue reading to learn some of the elements frequently considered when determining the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Age as a Risk Factor
One of the most widely known risk factors is age. What loved ones might not know, however, is that after the age of 65, the risk of having Alzheimer’s doubles every five years. That risk increases even more when seniors turn 85. Unfortunately, this risk cannot be changed by diet or increased activity. That means seniors and their support team must focus on other risk factors to ensure they’re as healthy as possible.
Genetics and Family History
If there is a history of Alzheimer’s Disease in the family, seniors are more likely to receive the diagnosis. It is worth noting that the risk is higher when the family member is directly related, such as a sibling or parent. Like age, there is nothing that can be done to combat this. When faced with family history, seniors should focus on the factors they can impact.
Lifestyle Choices
Lifestyle choices are something that seniors can directly affect – and there are a lot of variables to play with. For instance, leading a sedentary life is thought to increase the risk, as well as eating a poor diet. Seniors who consistently smoke or participate in binge drinking might also increase their odds of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Additionally, not managing stress appropriately can also increase the risk of the disease.
Elder care providers can help seniors improve their lifestyle choices by encouraging them to maintain consistent physical activity and working with them to focus on healthy eating. Home care aids can also assist with grocery shopping and cooking when there are mobility issues to support their eating choices.
Chronic Medical Issues
Research shows that Alzheimer’s disease might be associated with certain chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Creating a consistent workout routine, eating healthy, and a proper medication management plan may help keep these diseases at bay, therefore not contributing to the risk. Loved ones and seniors can discuss concerns with a medical professional to see what steps should be taken to decrease the odds of these chronic issues.
Assessing for Alzheimer’s Disease
A doctor will typically conduct a thorough medical examination that includes a physical exam, a neurological exam, and cognitive testing to determine the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. They may also request imaging tests and biomarker studies.
It is important to remember that receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is not always determined by risk factors. However, being aware of these risk factors can assist seniors, loved ones, and elder care professionals in taking preventative measures to decrease the risks.
For a proper assessment and further questions, loved ones and seniors should consult a medical professional.
Source: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers/causes-and-risk-factors
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/assessing-your-risk-of-alzheimers-disease
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447