Early in my career as a medical reporter, I was sent to New Orleans to cover a cardiovascular conference, which presented an avalanche of new international heart research in 3 jargon heavy days. I’d find relief from the hours of lectures and hundreds of poster presentations by indulging in local culture after hours. Walks through the French Quarter, sizzling Cajun cuisine and yes, even a drink at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, a restaurant complete with a fiberglass shark suspended from the ceiling (next to the main stage, of course!). On my last day there, with an hour to kill before heading to airport, I found myself sitting in a small downtown nook having my palm read. A complete skeptic, I was eventually surprised to learn that all of what she told me would unfold in the three years to come.
For the first time, it made me question if my future is already spelled out, or up for negotiation for both matters of the heart and body. When it comes to physical health, no doubt, a mix of genetics and environment play a role, as do our good and bad choices. But knowing what your future holds can help you prepare for, and even delay, the inevitable.
Here at Sunnybrook, researchers have now found that a series of tests can accurately predict who will develop Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia up to 10 years in advance. The tests include things like verbal recall, and matching digits and symbols. Long before it’s obvious to a person who will be affected by these memory-robbing conditions, changes are already brewing in the brain. These tests help spot that, and the benefits to patients are huge, helping determine who may benefit from drugs or participation in a clinical trial. Also, knowing means patients can take steps to help delay the onset of the disease by eating better, exercising more and engaging in activities that keep the brain alert. While there is no stopping the train, there is slowing it down, so to speak.
Delaying the onset of disease can also save a huge amount of money. A second Sunnybrook study has found that the costs of caring for patients with Alzheimer’s disease is massive, costing caregivers up to $4,000 every month, out of pocket.
But before you run out and demand these tests, you should know they are only for patients aged 65 and older. Anyone concerned about a memory problem should start with a visit to their family doctor to help rule out any other potential causes, like dietary problems or even depression. After that, if your doctor determines that you are eligible, you’ll need to be referred to a trained neuropsychologist to have these tests done. So while your future may be laid out, at least you’ll still have some control in the palm of your hand.
Learn more about another Sunnybrook study on Alzheimer’s Disease
