November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to focus on understanding and addressing Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia. This progressive brain disease gradually impairs memory, thinking and reasoning skills. Recognizing and responding to the early signs of cognitive impairment is crucial to help you receive an accurate diagnosis and start you on an effective treatment plan.
Recognizing Early Symptoms
Initial Alzheimer’s symptoms can vary widely. If you are a veteran experiencing memory loss or any other dementia-related warning signs, be proactive about scheduling an appointment with your VA primary care provider. A doctor will screen you to determine whether the changes in your memory and cognitive abilities are attributable to dementia or another underlying issue.
The evaluation process typically includes the following.
- Symptom history: A detailed discussion about your symptoms and how long they have been occurring.
- Family history analysis: Since dementia tends to run in families, a health provider will want to know if any of your family members have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
- Medication review: A thorough review of all your current medications.
- Comprehensive physical exam: A doctor will test your cardiovascular and neurological function, as well as your vision and hearing.
- Objective cognitive testing: Brief memory tests will objectively assess your cognitive function.
- Laboratory tests: Blood and urine tests can help your doctor diagnose Alzheimer’s or other health conditions.
- Advanced imaging: A physician may order imaging tests to further evaluate your brain health.
- Specialist referrals: If your doctor believes you would benefit from specialized care, they can refer you to a neurologist or other specialists.
- Supportive services referral: Your physician may arrange a discussion with a social worker to address any specific needs and ensure comprehensive support.
- Home safety evaluation: Older adults need lifestyle changes to make their daily lives easier, maintain a degree of independence and prevent hazards like falls.
Your Health Is Our Priority
Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing Alzheimer’s disease. For veterans, the VA provides a thorough and multifaceted approach to testing and diagnosing Alzheimer’s, considering several health and environmental variables.
This Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we encourage veterans to get screened for dementia. Warrior Vets’ experienced, dedicated team of registered nurses, physicians’ assistants, audiologists, ophthalmologists and psychologists is here to give back to the military veterans who have sacrificed so much for our nation. Remember, addressing symptoms early with your VA provider can lead to better symptom management and significantly improve your quality of life. Connect with us to learn how we can help you.