How to Recognize Pre-Onset Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, is a brain disorder that begins with mild forgetful symptoms and progresses into full-blown dementia, eventually affecting not only the brain but also other parts of the body as the brain deteriorates. Because the pre-onset symptoms of Alzheimer's may be similar to normal cognitive decline in older adults, it may be difficult to recognize them.

Instructions

• 1

  In between the state of normal brain function and the development of Alzheimer's is an intermediate stage known as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). In this stage, memory-related abilities decline, barely perceptible to those around the patient. For a diagnosis of MCI, these symptoms must meet the following criteria.

• 2

  During the pre-onset period of MCI, the patient will experience memory difficulties that either he will be aware of or those around him will notice. These forgetful periods may affect the way the patient adapts to situations in his daily life.

• 3

  If this is brought to their attention, medical professionals will administer neuropsychological tests, conducted with a paper and a pencil, to determine if a patient is suffering from MCI. These tests may pinpoint certain cognitive problems in the patient while other mental conditions remain normal.

• 4

  The patient with MCI will find it difficult to complete one or more complex tasks but he will be able to perform routine daily tasks successfully. Regular activities, such as driving, shopping, paying bills and household chores will not be affected.

• 5

  The fourth criteria for determining the presence of MCI is the fact that dementia is not currently present in the individual. The patient is not functionally impaired and she is able to conduct her own life.

• 6

  Although Alzheimer's patients pass through the MCI phase before developing Alzheimer's disease, not all patients with MCI will progress into full-blown Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Marwan Noel Sabbagh, author of "The Alzheimer's Answer," reports that many medical professionals feel that treatment during the MCI period may prevent the eventual development of Alzheimer's.