Do I Have Mild Neurocognitive Disorder Due To Alzheimer’s Disease?

Can you confirm that you meet the criteria for mild neurocognitive disorder? To be diagnosed with this disorder, there must be changes that impact cognitive functioning. Symptoms can be observed by yourself, a relative or detected through objective testing.

Is there insidious onset and gradual progression of impairment in one or more cognitive domains?

Is there evidence of a causative Alzheimer’s disease genetic mutation from either genetic testing or family history?

Is there clear evidence of decline in memory and learning, is there a progressive, gradual decline in cognition and can you confirm that there is no evidence of mixed etiology (i.e., absence of other neurodegenerative or cerebrovascular disease)? Note: answer ‘Yes’ only if all three criteria are met.

Can you confirm that the disturbance is not better explained by cerebrovascular disease, another neurodegenerative disease, the effects of a substance or another mental, neurological or systemic disorder?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have mild neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease.

While it is unlikely that you have mild neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease, you are displaying some signs related to it. The disease progresses gradually until severe dementia is reached or until death. The onset is usually after the age of 80, however, some people have onset at age 50. If you want to obtain more information about this disorder, for yourself or maybe because you suspect someone close to you is suffering from it, it may be important to see a doctor.

While it is unlikely that you have mild neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease, you are displaying some signs related to it. The disorder comes with several problems, including impairment in social an occupational functioning. It can reach a point where the person can’t do normal daily activities anymore, such as driving and grocery shopping. When the symptoms are severe, the person may need total nursing care. The person may also become violent and disinhibited and usually shows impaired intellect. If you are worried about your own symptoms or maybe the symptoms of a person close to you, it may be necessary to seek medical attention.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have mild neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease. Seeking medical support is essential in this case. Some medications have been proven to slow down the progression of the disorder, such as donepezil and galantamine. Additionally, psychosocial interventions are very important in treating mild neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer’s disease, as well as caregiver support. Caregivers may benefit from support groups to understand and manage better the disorder of the patient they are taking care of. Cognitive therapies have not been shown to be effective in treating the disorder.