Boomers not aware of Alzheimer’s symptoms

Although they are increasingly at risk of developing the condition as they age, baby boomers lack knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease, according to an online survey conducted by the Alzheimer Society.

Survey results show that 23 per cent of boomers can’t name any of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

Of those surveyed, 50 per cent identified memory loss as a key symptom, but failed to mention other critical signs.

The risk of developing the condition doubles every five years after age 65.

“Boomers are their own best detectors of Alzheimer’s,” Mary Schulz, national director of education at the Alzheimer Society, said in a press release.

“Most people associate memory loss with Alzheimer’s but it’s so much more. Sudden changes in mood, misplacing common household items (like keys in the refrigerator), repeating words or statements or difficulty with everyday tasks like getting dressed can all be warning signs.”

Respondents were also unaware that diabetes, obesity, heart disease and chronic depression significantly increase their odds for developing the disease.

Last year, the Alzheimer Society released a report called Rising Tide: The Impact of Dementia on Canadian Society, which shows that if current demographic trends continue, the prevalence of dementia will more than double in 30 years, with the costs increasing tenfold.

Without a cure or drugs to stop the disease, Alzheimer’s is destined to be the most pressing and costly health issue baby boomers will face in their lifetime: either they will get the disease themselves or be faced with caring for someone with the disease, according to the press release.

During January, which is Alzheimer Awareness Month, people are invited to test their knowledge of Alzheimer’s by taking a survey at www.alzheimer.ca/testyourknowledge.

The Alzheimer Society is also encouraging people, especially those over the age of 40, to protect themselves from getting the condition by learning the risks and making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels.