It’s the dark cloud looming over many seniors thoughts: Will I get Alzheimer’s disease? Memory is a wonderful thing that links us from the present to the past and to those we love. To think about having that taken away can be frightening.

When Grandma begins to forget her grandchildren’s’ names or what month it is, most of us would come to the conclusion that dementia is setting in. Because it is a difficult issue to face, a visit to the doctor’s office to discuss it might get put off.

What many people don’t realize is that there are many other causes for cognitive problems. One of the more simple reasons for these symptoms is a reaction to a new medication.

Other causes include:

• Depression
• Thyroid disease
• Urinary-tract infections
• Vitamin B12 deficiencies
• Heavy drinking
• Sleep Apnea

Another cause, which produces symptoms so similar to Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and Parkinson’s that it can be hard to tell the difference, is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. NPH is a neurological condition which occurs in adults 55 and older. An accumulation of fluid builds up in the brain, causing cognitive and mobility issues. Patients claim a feeling of having their feet glued to the floor. NPH symptoms of memory loss and confusion appear later in the progression of the disease, whereas they appear early on in Alzheimer’s.

All of these alternative causes for Alzheimer’s disease-like symptoms are treatable. No matter what you think the reason for your symptoms are, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Hitting a problem head on will always be more helpful than letting it progress unattended.

If Alzheimer’s disease is the diagnosis, you may be looking for home care in Rhode Island. MAS Home Care is just a call away. We specialize in Alzheimer’s and dementia care that can be customized to fit your needs.

MAS Home Care provides home care in New Hampshire, Maine and Rhode Island.