Noticing changes in your memory could be an early indicator of Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s society has claimed that noticing a change in your memory should not be ignored because it could be an early indicator of the cognitive changes linked to Alzheimer’s.

A group of research studies reveal that people who reported feeling as though their memory had worsened over time were more likely to be diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or have increased beta-amyloid levels which are a pre cursor of Alzheimer’s disease than those who notice no change.

Dr Doug Brown, director of research and development at Alzheimer’s Society said: “We all know our own bodies and these studies demonstrate how important it is to seek medical advice if you have noticed changes in your memory. Only 46 per cent of people with dementia have a diagnosis providing them with access treatments and support to help them live well with the condition

“The identification of a link between self-reported memory loss and a risk of developing dementia although not conclusive, offers a promising avenue of research to develop ways of identifying people at risk at an early stage. From a research perspective, it could also make it easier to identify people who could take part in treatment or prevention trials where early intervention is likely to have the greatest effect.”

It is hoped that having an awareness of changes in people’s own memory could lead to more early diagnoses of Alzheimer’s disease and ensure people have access to help available to them.

One study involved 531 people with an average age of 70 being measured through cognitive assessments over a 10-year time period.

The study found that those who described changes in their memory were twice as likely to be diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or dementia as those who reported no noticeable changes to their memory.

Responding to the research findings, Dr Brown however warned: “It is important to note that memory loss can be symptomatic of many different conditions and does not necessarily mean the early stages of dementia.”

The research was presented at the Alzheimer’s Association’s International Conference 2013 where researchers and scientists from all over the world will continue to share knowledge and new findings with the aim to find a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.

To find out more about the Alzheimer’s Association’s International Conference 2013 please visit: www.carehome.co.uk/news/article.cfm/id/1560502/new-form-of-alzheimers-therapy-is-set-to-be-saftey-tested-on-humans