Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, or experiencing early signs of memory loss yourself, can be overwhelming. You may ask: What can I do to ensure the best possible quality of life?
The key is early detection of potential health conditions and regular health screenings. These screenings can catch issues early on, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life for caregivers and those with cognitive challenges.
Read on to learn more about the importance of regular screenings and tips for making the most of these appointments.
What are Alzheimer’s disease and dementia?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a general term for a decline in cognitive function severe enough to affect daily life. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).
“Early-stage dementia might start as mild memory loss, such as problems recalling names or words,” said Roshni Kundranda, MD, a geriatric medicine specialist with Banner Health. “As the disease progresses to moderate dementia, symptoms become more pronounced, including confusion about time and place and needing help with daily activities.”
In late-stage dementia, individuals often lose awareness of their surroundings and require full-time care, such as live-in care or residential care.
Why health screenings matter
Wellness screenings are important in maintaining health and uncovering hidden health problems that might go unnoticed until they become serious.
“For those with dementia, routine health screenings are especially important due to their increased vulnerability to other health conditions,” Dr. Kundranda said. “These screenings are important as early detection and treatment can potentially lead to better outcomes and enhanced quality of life.”
Regular health checks can also prevent emergencies. Catching issues early means fewer hospital visits and medical emergencies, which can be stressful for you and a loved one.
The following are health screenings to consider:
Tobacco and alcohol use
Smoking and drinking alcohol can affect the health of people with dementia. Smoking can also increase the risk of other diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
“All adults, including those with dementia, should not smoke and get help to quit, if needed,” Dr. Kundranda said. “Quitting smoking lowers the risk of heart disease, COPD and some cancers.”
Drinking alcohol is also important to watch. Many people over age 65 drink alcohol and some drink more than they should. Doing so can make dementia symptoms worse. Consuming alcohol can also increase risk of falls.
“People with dementia should drink only a little and avoid alcohol after dinner because it can affect sleep,” Dr. Kundranda said. “Managing alcohol this way can help reduce its impact on thinking and overall health.”
Cancer screenings
Finding cancer early on can lead to better outcomes.
“Checking for cancer in older adults who don’t show symptoms can help find cancer early and it can be treated, even in people with mild memory loss and early stages of dementia,” Dr. Kundranda said. “Providers should decide on screenings based on each person’s other health problems, life expectancy and the patient’s and caregiver’s personal values and preferences.”
Common screenings include:
- Mammograms: Recommended up to age 75 or on an individual basis.
- PSA testing for prostate cancer: Recommended for men aged 50 to 69. However, if you are African American or have a family history of prostate cancer, you should discuss with your health care provider earlier.
- Colon cancer screening: Stool tests or colonoscopy starting at age 45, depending on individual risk.
- Cervical cancer screening: Recommended in women up to age 65 years and depending on individual risk.
- Lung cancer screening: For those aged 50 to 80 who smoked heavily for many years and who are either current or former smokers who have quit within the past 15 years.
Cardiovascular screenings
Heart health is very important for people with dementia.
“Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can increase the risk of problems like stroke and vascular dementia,” Dr. Kundranda said. “Vascular dementia can also coexist with other dementias like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s dementia.” Regular check-ups can help manage these issues well.
Other important screenings
Other recommended evaluations include:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening: For males ages 65 to 75 who have ever smoked or have a family history of aneurysms.
- Screening for depression and social isolation: To address mental health needs.
- Vision and hearing screenings: Declines in vision and hearing are linked to increased risks of falls, cognitive decline and depression.
- Osteoporosis screening: This screening is recommended for women or people AFAB over age 65 and men and people AMAB over age 70. Treating osteoporosis can reduce the risk of fractures.
The role of caregivers
Taking care of someone with dementia is challenging because their ability to think clearly and make choices can decline. Caregivers often have to help individuals with dementia understand medical options like tests and treatments or decide these things for them.
“When deciding whether to screen a person with dementia for health issues like cancer, it’s important to think about their personal values and preferences, as well as those of the caregiver,” Dr. Kundranda said. “Caregivers should ask questions about the benefits of screening and the risks of doing so. They should understand what might happen if tests show something and what treatments might be needed.”
Tips for caregivers and individuals with dementia for screenings
The following are tips to help you and/or a loved one with navigating health screenings:
- Choose the right time: Schedule appointments during the time of day when the person with dementia is most alert and calm to reduce stress and improve communication.
- Assist with logistics: Caregivers can help schedule appointments, arrange transportation and prepare necessary documents.
- Prepare in advance: Make a list of concerns or symptoms to discuss with your health care provider beforehand.
- Keep records: Maintain a health journal to track symptoms, medications and medical visits.
- Use visual aids: Calendars, reminder notes or digital apps can help you remember the appointment date and time.
- Consent and understanding: To the extent possible, ensure that the person with dementia understands the purpose and benefits of screenings. Caregivers can explain procedures and provide reassurance during appointments.
- Arrive early: Allow extra time for transportation and any delays that may occur. Arriving early can help ease anxiety.
- Advocate: Caregivers can provide important details about any changes in behavior or health that the individual might be unable to express.
- Seek support: Joining support groups or seeking advice from organizations specializing in dementia care can offer additional resources and guidance for navigating screenings and health care decisions.
Conclusion
Regular wellness, cancer and other screenings are important for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. These screenings can help detect problems early, ensuring timely treatment and overall quality of life. Caregivers can help ensure these health checks take place and support their loved ones.
If you or your loved one with dementia have questions or concerns, see your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist.
