What steps should be taken to manage Alzheimer's disease?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am deeply concerned about my grandfather. He is 68 years old and has been taking medication for high blood pressure for the last 12 years. Lately, he has been showing some worrying signs that make me think he might have Alzheimer's disease. He has been forgetting things more frequently, like where he put his keys or whether he has already eaten or taken his medicines. Sometimes he seems confused and disoriented, even in familiar places. It is heartbreaking to see him like this, and I am terrified of what it might mean for his future and our family. Could you please tell me what specific symptoms I should be looking for to confirm if it is Alzheimer's and what steps we can take to support him and manage the condition?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

We welcome you to our platform.

I appreciate the confidence you place in me for your healthcare consultation.

I understand your concern about your grandfather, and I am sorry for what he is going through. Frankly, your descriptions of his condition can be suggestive of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. However, it is good to know that other conditions can cause problems with memory, focus, and orientation. Therefore, the first step is to investigate possible underlying conditions that may mimic Alzheimer's disease. For example, low thyroid gland function can manifest similarly. You need to set an appointment with a physician for initial tests, including a brief mental test (some questions to check cognitive ability), blood tests, and a review of medications. If blood test results turn out normal, then a neurologist visit to order brain imaging (usually brain MRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) are necessary. The neurologist, by using the results of the tests, can determine the most appropriate diagnosis. Then, following the diagnosis, the treatment plan would be designed.

I hope you find this information useful. Feel free to ask for more information.

Thank you.