5 Benefits of Early Diagnosis of Dementia and Alzheimer’s

You might think ignorance is bliss, or what you don't know can't hurt you, or any number of other cliches when it comes to dementia and Alzheimer's (the most common form of dementia). You might think since there is currently no cure for the condition that, there is no benefit to you or a loved one knowing they have dementia and that it can only cause additional distress. 

But life doesn't end with a dementia diagnosis. People with dementia can continue to live life to the fullest after an early diagnosis.

5 Benefits of Early Diagnosis of Dementia

1. More Treatment Options
   Currently, there is no cure for dementia; however, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and possibly slow the progress of dementia. Therapies, such as occupational therapy, cognitive stimulation therapy, and massage therapy, may help treat some dementia symptoms and behavior problems. Some medications can help relieve dementia symptoms, such as depression and sleep problems. Lecanemab (Leqembi®) is not a cure but has been found to slow the progress of Alzheimer's (the most common form of dementia) when taken in the early stages.
   
   
2. Potential to Participate in More Clinical Trials 
   Clinical trials provide hope for people with dementia, their families, and future generations. "By participating in clinical research, you can help to accelerate progress and provide valuable insight into potential treatments and methods of prevention," the Alzheimer's Association states. Clinical trials also enable people with the condition to play a more active role in their health care, access potential treatments before they are widely available, and offer expert medical care at leading healthcare facilities (often free of charge). Although there are clinical trials for people in every stage of Alzheimer's, more are available to individuals who receive an early diagnosis.
   
   
3. Ability to Make Lifestyle Changes
   Research shows that diet and lifestyle impact the development and progression of dementia. A recent study identified six habits linked to a slower rate of memory decline, including eating a balanced diet, exercising the mind and body regularly, having regular contact with others, and not drinking or smoking. Also, the earlier you can diagnose dementia, the sooner you can begin managing dementia symptoms, such as depression and irritability.
   
   
4. Opportunity to Focus on What is Important
   There's nothing like a diagnosis of a progressive disease to put things into perspective. An early diagnosis gives you the opportunity to focus on what's really important to you. That could mean early retirement, spending more time with family, traveling, or whatever is truly important to you. 
   
   
5. Time to Plan for the Future
   Early diagnosis allows people living with dementia and their families time to educate themselves on the condition, adjust to the diagnosis, and plan for the future. With an early diagnosis, the person with dementia can participate in decisions about legal and financial arrangements, make their wishes known, and research options for living arrangements as the condition progresses.   
   
   

If you or a loved one receives an Alzheimer's or dementia diagnosis, the earlier you can make a plan for the future, the better. As Alzheimer's or dementia progresses, it can become increasingly difficult to properly care for yourself or for loved ones to provide the care and support you need.

Contact Us for Alzheimer's & Dementia Care

Comforting Home Care by Phoebe offers a range of compassionate in-home dementia and Alzheimer's care services—including, but not limited to, personal care, meal prep, transportation, and companionship—designed to support individuals with dementia.

These services provide the assistance needed to live comfortably and safely at home and much-needed respite care for families and loved ones.

Give us a call today at 610-625-5206, or connect with us online.