Symptoms Of Early Onset Alzheimers Disease

It is in the mild stage of the disease that the diagnosis is made and it is these symptoms that can be the most difficult to detect at first especially if the individual is younger...

It is in the mild stage of the disease that the diagnosis is made and it is these symptoms that can be the most difficult to detect at first especially if the individual is younger than 65. Typically Alzheimer’s is a disease that occurs in those who are 65 or older so when someone in their 50s or 40s starts to display symptoms it is often overlooked or misdiagnosed.

Early-onset Alzheimer’s is a rare form of dementia. This disease occurs in 5% to 10% of the population. It can occur as young as 30 years of age but is more typically seen in those who are in their 50s.

The disease tends to run in families so researchers suspect that there is a genetic link – the apo E gene. It is known however, that you can have this gene and not develop the disease. Because of this issue those desiring genetic testing should receive genetic counseling first so that they can be prepared for the results.

Perhaps the most devastating part of receiving the news that you have early-onset Alzheimer’s is that you are more than likely in the prime years of your life. You are at a time in your career and relationships where you are the most financially vulnerable and when life should be good and full of promise. Society does not expect for someone in their 30s, 40s or 50s to be exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s so they are often fired from employment, careers are ended, relationships fall apart because the symptoms are misunderstood. Employment benefits are lost and even much needed insurance benefits because the disease is not diagnosed in time. Spouses turn into caregivers instead of being nurtured and cared for and full of romance as is the usual relationship in the 30s through 50s and relationships are strained typically before the diagnosis is even made.

Typically Alzheimer’s robs the individual of the retirement years but in the case of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s the individual is robbed of his/her prime years this as stated above could place a heavy burden on the individual’s family as well as present a strain on the relationships. Instead of the individual caring for aging parent, aging parents may be the ones caring for a son or daughter who has Alzheimer’s in their 30s, 40s or 50s or it may be a spouse who instead of enjoying raising a family with their husband or wife or doing so alone while caring for the spouse with Alzheimer’s. These situations can be difficult emotionally and financially.

It is vital that once the diagnosis is made that all involved parties (individual and family members) receive support through counseling and medical staff so that the symptoms can all be identified and understood. Treatment is vital so that the disease can be slowed if possible. There are many community organizations and programs that can give support as well as valuable information about the disease.

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