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Seniors
believe memory problems are an inevitable part of aging and
that nothing can be done about them, according to a new study
by the Alzheimer's Association.
Perla
Werner of the University of Haifa in Israel said a considerable
lag often exists between the first symptoms of memory deterioration
and the decision to consult a doctor. Some simply ignore their
memory problems or practice remembering things, she said.
Werner
said researchers attribute this lag to the difficulty elderly
people and their family caregivers have with differentiating
memory problems in normal aging from the signs of Alzheimer's.
Although
no treatment has been approved yet to prevent or manage mild
cognitive impairment, Werner said its timely diagnosis can
help delay onset and progression of Alzheimer's.
"Not
every individual who has mild cognitive impairment will develop
Alzheimer's," said Jennie Ward Robinson, director of
medical and scientific affairs at the Alzheimer's Association.
"But significant memory problems should be a signal to
consult a doctor. Early detection can result in better quality
of life, for those with the disease as well as their caregivers."
The study
was presented at the 8th International Conference on Alzheimer's
Disease and Related Disorders in Stockholm, Sweden.
Source:
Alzheimer Week
of July 28, 2002
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