Connecting Alzheimer’s Patients, Caregivers with Resources for Early Detection and Care
By Chodosh, D.B. Petitti, M. Elliott, R.D. Hays, V.C. Crooks, D.B. Reuben, et al
Physician recognition of cognitive impairment: evaluating the need for improvement
HEALTH TIPS- Alzheimer’s disease is a serious brain disorder that impacts daily living through memory loss and cognitive changes.
A study conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association New York City chapter revealed an estimated 250,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia in New York City, many over the age of 65. Although not all memory loss indicates Alzheimer’s disease, the earlier you seek help, the better your chances are of getting the care you need and maximizing your quality of life. Cognitive impairment goes unrecognized in 27%–81% of affected patients in primary care.1-3 Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease usually develop slowly and gradually worsen over time, progressing from mild forgetfulness to widespread brain impairment.
A study conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association New York City chapter revealed an estimated 250,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia in New York City, many over the age of 65. Although not all memory loss indicates Alzheimer’s disease, the earlier you seek help, the better your chances are of getting the care you need and maximizing your quality of life. Cognitive impairment goes unrecognized in 27%–81% of affected patients in primary care.1-3 Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease usually develop slowly and gradually worsen over time, progressing from mild forgetfulness to widespread brain impairment.
If you suspect a loved one might be displaying symptoms associated with the early stages of Alzheimer’s, pay attention to the warning signs. By working collaboratively with a primary care provider, you can begin to identify other specialists who might be most helpful in caring for your loved one. If a few of these sound a little too familiar, schedule an appointment with your family’s primary care physician:
Memory loss that disrupts daily activities
Challenges with planning or solving problems
Confusion with time and place or understanding of visual images
Withdrawal from work or other social activities
Changes in mood or personality
Difficulty with speech and/or writing
Montefiore, which combines the expertise and best-in-class practices of the Montefiore Einstein Center for the Aging Brain (CAB), located nearby in Yonkers, and Burke Rehabilitation's Memory Evaluation and Treatment Services (METS), has been designated as the exclusive Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s disease serving the seven county region of the Hudson Valley.
At our centers, we evaluate patients for cognitive/memory loss, diagnose and educate patients and families on what are normal age associated changes, as well as Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. We do this by establishing a baseline on memory and conducting thinking exercises to help identify what are the strengths and weaknesses in each person, so we can offer perspective and see what services are most appropriate. As a caregiver, there are also many resources available for your health and well-being.
In addition to the Center for the Aging Brain, where we have caregiver support groups, monitor stress of caregivers, and offer counseling sessions, we are fortunate to have excellent local organizations outside of Montefiore and Burke like the Alzheimer’s Association. We often give referrals there for memory bracelets, which on more than one occasion; have helped loved ones have a safe return back to their homes.
Comprehensive approaches, like that of Montefiore’s improve identification of Alzheimer’s disease and support of caregivers in need. This can help enhance quality of life for all impacted by Alzheimer’s.