Alzheimer's quiz: Diagnostic clues

The memory loss associated with aging is relatively mild. You forget where you put things, or can't put a name to the face of a former co-worker. Alzheimer's, on the other hand, interferes with daily life. It impairs:

• The ability to handle complex tasks, such as balancing a checkbook
• Reasoning skills, making it difficult to cope with unexpected events
• Spatial ability and orientation, so it's easier to get lost in familiar places

While still controversial, some studies suggest that the risk of Alzheimer's increases for people who have had a head injury with loss of consciousness, a history of depression or a low level of education.

Parkinson's disease and strokes occur more often in older people, and both these maladies can produce dementia symptoms. In fact, some older adults may experience dementia caused by strokes, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's — simultaneously.

Both high blood pressure and low blood pressure seem to increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's. High cholesterol levels also have been linked to Alzheimer's. The explanation for these observations is still being investigated.

Having a close relative with Alzheimer's increases your risk. For example, if you have a parent or sibling with Alzheimer's disease, you have a 10 percent to 30 percent chance of developing the disorder. Your risk is on the higher end of the range if your family member developed Alzheimer's at a younger age.

There is no single test that can determine whether a person has Alzheimer's. Instead, a doctor must rely on the description of symptoms — most commonly provided by family members — and on the results of verbal and written tests designed to assess mental functions.

Up to 10 percent of people who have memory problems and confusion have potentially reversible disorders, such as:

• Thyroid problems
• Drug side effects
• Alcohol abuse
• Depression
• Vitamin deficiencies

At specialized Alzheimer's research clinics, doctors can accurately identify about nine out of 10 cases of the disease. The diagnostic process starts with an in-depth interview of the person with suspected Alzheimer's disease and his or her family. The interviews assess the person's general health, past medical problems and present difficulties.

Next come physical examinations and medical tests to rule out other possible causes, followed by detailed neuropsychological tests to assess memory, problem solving and similar skills. Your doctor may also order a brain scan.

An early start to medication and proper caregiving can improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimer's disease. In some cases, drug therapy slows the loss of memory and helps control anxiety and behavior problems. Appropriate treatment, along with caregiver support, also makes it possible to delay nursing home admission. In addition, early recognition of the disease allows family members to help plan and prepare for the future.

If you suspect that someone you know may be experiencing early Alzheimer's, arrange for an evaluation by that person's doctor.