My mom has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and my brother and I are working to help her which is overwhelming in itself but I am also really struggling with anxiety and depression as it relates to the hereditary aspect of this disease. My mother, my grandmother and my great grandmother have all had Alzheimer’s and I feel like I’m a ticking time bomb. My grandmother and great grandmother were in their mid to late 80’s when they were diagnosed but my mom just turned 71. My mom has not always had a healthy lifestyle and definitely had more risk factors than the other two, but the reality is that this awful disease clearly runs through the women in my family. Have any of you faced this issue? How do you handle it? I’ve tried researching Alzheimer’s prevention but it’s all very vague and frankly depressing. Just wondering how others are coping with this….
If you receive one -4 gene, your chance of getting AD is somewhat increased over someone who doesn't have that gene. If you receive a -4 gene from each parent, your chances are greater yet. However, having one or two copies of the -4 gene does not insure you will get the disease. In fact, the disease can occur in someone who doesn't even carry the -4 gene.
There are also what are called deterministic genes. These genes, PSEN1 and 2 and the APP gene directly cause AD. These genes are responsible for early onset AD, prior to 65, which doesn't seem to run in your family.
I would talk to your doctor not only about your concern regarding AD, but also your anxiety and depression. Both of those can be treated. You could request genetic testing, but most clinicians don't recommend it. A geriatrician can help you with the pros and cons of genetic testing.
You might get cancer instead or get in a car accident or get shot by a bullet that wasn't meant for you. Tomorrow is promised to no one.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia.
75% of people aged 75-years-old and older have some Alzheimer's dementia.
The prevalence of dementia, especially Alzheimer's dementia, rises as people age - so expect more in folks 80-90 years old.
More women than men get Alzheimer's dementia.
Some research seems to point to micro strokes as the cause of Alzheimer's dementia.
To prevent strokes:
maintain a healthy diet and weight,
get your blood pressure checked frequently,
if you have high blood pressure - take your meds.
So, your family female members having Alzheimer's dementia may be more a matter of statistics than genetics. Take care of yourself and you should live a healthier life.
"Genetic tests are available for both APOE-e4 and the rare genes that directly cause Alzheimer's. In addition, testing for APOE-e4 is sometimes included as a part of research studies."
Source: https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers/causes-and-risk-factors/genetics
No guarantees of course but I think there is some hope on the horizon if you look for it.