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  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

continued:

Early-onset Alzheimer's: When symptoms begin before 65

What types of problems occur more often in early-onset Alzheimer's?

Alzheimer's disease has a tremendous impact at any age. But we don't expect to see dementia at a young age, so problems emerging at work or home may be mistakenly ascribed to lack of motivation or diligence, or possible psychiatric problems. People with early-onset Alzheimer's may lose relationships or be fired instead of being identified as medically ill or disabled.

The loss of intimacy is something that comes up a lot with early-onset Alzheimer's. Many people who develop late-onset Alzheimer's have already been widowed. But couples in their 40s or 50s are often in the middle of their married lives. Spouses face the possibility of spending many years of their lives without an active partner. Losing the romantic component and changing to a caregiver status complicates the relationship.

Are there financial issues as well?

People with early-onset Alzheimer's often have to quit work, and this loss of income is a serious concern. Finances get even tighter if their spouses also quit their jobs to become full-time caregivers. Some medical benefits and many social-support programs won't provide assistance unless the person with Alzheimer's is over age 65. Younger people may need special waivers to get into such programs.

How important is it to obtain an accurate diagnosis?

Accurate diagnosis is critical so that you can explain your condition to your employer and perhaps arrange a lighter workload or more convenient schedule. For family reasons it is even more crucial. The diagnosis is fundamental in helping the family react with appropriate understanding and compassion. In addition, a complete evaluation will rule out reversible forms of dementia that might improve with treatment.

What advice do you have for those with early-onset Alzheimer's and their families?

The key treatments in Alzheimer's are education and support. This is especially true given the unique social challenges of early-onset Alzheimer's. Getting connected to services such as support groups can help you identify resources, gain a deeper understanding and learn ways to adapt to the situation.

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References
  1. Early-onset Alzheimer's: I'm too young to have Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_earlyonset.pdf. Accessed Jan. 6, 2009.
  2. Alzheimer's disease: Unraveling the mystery. National Institute on Aging. http://www.nia.nih.gov/NR/rdonlyres/0FA2EE06-0074-4C45-BAA3-34D56170EB8B/0/Unraveling_final.pdf. Accessed Jan. 6, 2009.
  3. Caselli RJ, et al. The degenerative dementias. In: Goetz CG. Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier Saunders; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/115694196-4/0/1488/287.html?tocnode=53802545&fromURL=287.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-3618-0..10033-5--s0020_2313. Accessed Jan. 6, 2009.
  4. Financial matters. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_financial_matters.asp. Accessed Jan. 6, 2009.
  5. Smith GE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 27, 2009.

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Sept. 11, 2009

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