Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alzheimer’s disease and dementia the same?

Dementia is a set of symptoms that includes loss of memory, judgment and reasoning, and changes in mood and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common disease producing dementia, account for 64 % of all dementias. Over time Alzheimer’s disease destroys nerve cells in the brain, causing irreversible damage.

What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease?

Some forms of dementia can be treated, so it is important that the person experiencing these problems be assessed by a physician. Symptoms may develop slowly, but people with several of the symptoms listed below should see their doctor for a complete examination.

• Memory loss that affects day-to-day function
• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Problems with language
• Disorientation of time and place
• Poor or decreased judgment
• Problems with abstract thinking
• Misplacing objects
• Changes in mood and behavior
• Changes in personality
• Loss of initiative

What causes Alzheimer’s disease?

Researchers do not yet know what causes Alzheimer’s disease. We do know that certain factors, such as increasing age and family history are risk factors for development of the disease.

How many people are affected by Alzheimer’s disease in Canada?

It is estimated that 500,000 Canadians over 65 have Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. The number in Canada with dementia is expected to grow by the year 2031 to over ¾ of a million people.

Is there a cure? Are any treatments available?

At this time there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, medication is available to treat some of the symptoms. The Alzheimer Society of Kitchener-Waterloo offers dementia support, family education programs and staff training to enhance the life of both the person with the disease and their care providers.

What is the usual time span for the disease?

For every person the time span of the disease is different, with many people living with the disease between 6 and 12 years.

I thought there was no definite diagnosis possible. What does the diagnostic process look like?

There is currently no single test to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. The diagnosis is made through a systematic assessment which eliminates other possible causes of the dementia symptoms. Diagnosis takes time and is usually facilitated in a family doctor’s office, a memory clinic or a hospital. The doctor may include other healthcare professionals, such as psychologist, psychiatrist, neurologist, geriatrician or nurse.

They will look for problems related to memory, reasoning, language and judgment and how these affect day to day function.

The process may include:

• Medical history
• Mental Status exam
• Physical exam
• Laboratory test
• Psychiatric and/or psychological evaluations
• CT or MRI

If I have an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, will I still be able to drive?

Some people are able to drive for a while after diagnosis. However, the time will come when it may not be safe for the person with dementia to drive. It is important to be open and honest about driving concerns and to think ahead about alternatives should you no longer be safe to drive. There is lots of support to help you and your family.

Is there anything I can take or do to prevent Alzheimer’s disease?

While there are no guarantees for prevention….research suggests that a healthy lifestyle may help to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Brain health is best maintained by challenging the brain through brain activities, by being socially active, by embracing exercise and healthy food choices, by managing stress and by protecting ones head from brain injury.

When I need additional information where can I go?

You may contact the Alzheimer Society of Kitchener-Waterloo at 519-742-1422, or visit www.alzheimerkw.com, with links to other agencies and supportive education. You may visit our office at 831 Frederick St, between 8:30am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.