TRENDING WELLNESS TOPIC: Alzheimer’s Disease

What is the problem?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. An estimated 6.7 million Americans age 65 and older will be living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2023, of which 73% are 75 or older. As the size of the U.S. population aged 65 and older continues to increase, the number of Americans with Alzheimer’s or other dementias will also grow. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are both common, yet making the early assessment remains challenging for physicians.  Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.  New imaging techniques are being used in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, such as PET scans, functional MRIs, and retinal scans.  There are also new drugs the FDA has recently approved for treating Alzheimer’s disease in the early stages of dementia. It is important for physicians to utilize current screening/ testing/ imaging mechanisms, as well as know about available treatment options, as early prevention and diagnosis can reduce the risk of developing and worsening of the disease. 

Learning Objectives

• Review the risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and perform a comprehensive medical evaluation.
• Analyze the different stages of Alzheimer’s, including early onset
• Utilize current screening/testing/imaging mechanisms used to diagnose AD
• Manage appropriately through the use of current and new treatment protocols.
• Counsel patients on preventive measures to promote and boost cognitive function in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Recognize patients at higher risk (gender, ethnicity, etc.) and address language barriers that may affect assessment and diagnosis

CLICK HERE to download a PDF file featuring information gaps, potential needs, and references for this topic.

If your medical staff needs an update on the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer’s disease, consider contacting our office to book a speaker at 877-505-4777 or info@speakersnetwork.com.

REFERENCES

https://www.alz.org/media/documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf

https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/336281-overview

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-grants-accelerated-approval-alzheimers-disease-treatment