Maybe we both should have a good check up with our family dr. and be tested for Alz. and Dem. He has had open heart surgery at the young age of 50, and a heart attack at 55. Maybe these severe and stressful medical problems have caused it, but his memory and maybe a little of his personality has changed over the past few years. He has noticed it as well as Ihave mentioned it to him. Our grown kids have even mentioned noticing a difference in him. I just figure since my mom has the demential, I may stand a chance also of getting it. What do we do? Can we just ask the dr. to test us? I think there is enough evidence to suspect his....and I feel like it wouldn't hurt to have myself checked. Now- what does the testing consist of? Cat Scan, MRI, a simple cognitive test- ?????? Neither of us are educated, so couldn't prove anything with a question like "Can you count backwards from 100 by 4's or anything. Any advice?
Now, is that true? It sure made her feel better. However, both my wife and I have joined a study group that is (as I recall) associated with the University of Indiana. They provide the experts and we, in our small way, supply ourselves as the lab rats -- there are numerous others in the study. There is also a group of Nuns who have individually willed their brains to an Alzheimers study but I cannot direct you to it. I imagine that a Google search would give you more info. The point being that there is a lot going on in this field. BTW, The U of Indiana study does not require any money from us lab rats and if dementia runs in your family, I urge you to join..My wife & I get a new questionnaire every couple of years and that's about it.
What did my daughter's DNA test cost? I haven't a clue. But if you want to get it, you have to pay for it. On the other hand, the university pays all expenses connected with the study.
"Study finds that walking six miles a week has brain benefits."
I don't know if it would serve any purpose for you to be tested for dementia. A diagnosis takes into account current and recent symptoms and you don't have any symptoms. There is no definitive "test" that proves dementia. Researchers are searching urgently for a biomarker that would help them make early and accurate diagnosis. It would be great to analyze blood or urine and determine whether a person has dementia, and what type. We are not there yet. If you went through all the tests and seemed to be free of dementia, that is no guarantee you wouldn't develop it next year. Personally, I don't think it it makes much sense to have that kind of testing when you have no memory loss, no cognitive problems, and no behavioral issues. But I'm not a professional. When you make the appointment for your husband, ask the doctor whether there would be any value in you going through the tests, too.
Good luck!