Diagnosis & Treatment

Preparing for the Doctor’s Appointment

Obtaining a diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult and frustrating. Due to the young age and healthy appearance of the individual, other causes are often attributed to the symptoms that are being experienced. Often times the symptoms are blamed on stress, depression or other illnesses. It is not uncommon for someone to see 2-3 doctors before receiving an accurate diagnosis. Due to these difficulties, individuals with early onset Alzheimer’s may not necessarily be in the early stages of the disease when they receive the diagnosis.

• If you are consistently experiencing any symptoms, schedule a comprehensive medical evaluation with your primary care physician and possibly a neurologist or other specialist. In preparing for your appointment, make sure you do the following:
• Write down all symptoms – anything that is noticed to be different or out of the ordinary for the individual
• Make a list of any illnesses and medications being taken. Medications include prescription, over-the-counter, and all vitamins and herbal supplements.
• Compile a complete health history before going to the doctor.

In an effort to ease this process, we have created a document that you can complete prior to your doctor’s appointment. Click here to access Preparing for the Doctor’s Appointment.

Diagnostic Tests

We understand the anxiety, fear, and stress associated with going to the doctor and wondering what they will diagnose. In an effort to alleviate some of the unknown, we have a provided a list of common diagnostic tools that might be used/ordered during your visit. Please note that not every doctor may utilize all of these tools and they may order tests not listed.

Please click here to access the list of possible Diagnostic Tests.

Other Types of Dementia

In addition to early onset Alzheimer’s disease there are other types of dementia that can also be considered “early onset”. Please click here to access the listing of Other Types of Dementia.