EARLY-ONSET ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS ARE DETERMINED TO REMAIN ACTIVE

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, early-onset Alzheimer’s patients are proving that the best treatment for the disease is to stay as active as possible for as long as possible. Early-onset Alzheimer’s is defined as those cases diagnosed in people younger than 65 years. While a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is depressing at any age, an early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis is particularly devastating. Furthermore, it is quite difficult to diagnose early-onset Alzheimer’s, even if the patient displays clear signs of Alzheimer’s. Doctors first assume other diagnoses, and it is only through a process of elimination that Alzheimer’s is eventually diagnosed.

So how are early-onset Alzheimer’s patients staying active? Cindy Kolick, a professional theater actor, first presented signs of Alzheimer’s at the early age of 42 and was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at age 52. Alzheimer’s disease forced her to resign from her profession; nonetheless, she remains as active as possible. She sings in the chorus at the residential complex she lives in, exercises, and participates in online Alzheimer’s drug studies daily. Another early-onset Alzheimer’s case is that of Pati Hoffman. Hoffman used to have a corporate marketing job but was forced to leave it with the early diagnosis at aged 55. Hoffman now speaks about her struggles at events and continues to volunteer at the local food bank and walk.

Doctors and nurses also recommend that early-onset Alzheimer’s patients join support groups. As Danielle Arends, a nurse practitioner stresses, Alzheimer’s disease “can be an isolating disease”. A peer support group, staying active, and medication to treat dementia, will aid in the fight against the onset of Alzheimer's symptoms.

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