By Mary Goldmeer
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For families and caregivers facing Alzheimer's disease, a new medical advancement is bringing a sense of optimism.

At a recent community session, experts described a new FDA-approved blood test as a game changer in the quest for earlier, more accurate diagnoses.

The session, part of an ongoing series focused on aging and memory care, was a collaborative effort between the Georgia T. Lord Library and Maricopa County’s Department of Public Health. Held monthly, the events aim to provide local families with the information and resources needed to navigate the complexities of dementia and memory-related diseases.

The presentation was led by Kenzie McManus, programs director for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Desert Southwest Chapter. Sharing her personal connection to the cause, McManus recounted her grandmother’s battle with undiagnosed Alzheimer’s.

 “The dignity she deserved in her care was lost because we simply didn’t know enough about the disease,” McManus shared. “My passion for this organization runs deep. There is just not enough being talked about to help people get diagnosed early and get the support they need.”

McManus said her experience with her grandmother fueled her desire to work toward improving early diagnosis and better care for those living with Alzheimer’s. The session served as an opportunity to not only inform the community but also raise awareness of the Alzheimer’s Association’s ongoing efforts in funding research and advocacy.

The discussion provided an in-depth look at Alzheimer’s disease and its impact on both individuals and families. 

According to the Alzheimer's Association, more than 7 million Americans are currently living with the disease. This number is expected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050.  There is currently no single test for Alzheimer’s. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of routine memory screenings, neurological exams and neuroimaging or spinal taps.

McManus explained while dementia is an umbrella term encompassing more than 100 different types of brain diseases, Alzheimer’s is by far the most common, accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases. 

She highlighted a definitive diagnosis remains challenging, as there is currently no single test for Alzheimer’s. Diagnosis often involves a combination of memory screenings, neurological exams, and sometimes neuroimaging or spinal taps.

The introduction of the new blood test, however, represents a potential breakthrough in this area.

 “We are finally in an era of hope,” McManus said. “This test could serve as a crucial early indicator, giving people more time to make informed decisions about their loved one's future care.”

Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment McManus said.

“Up to 40% of Alzheimer’s cases could be delayed or prevented by modifiable lifestyle changes,” McManus said. She emphasized the importance of regular exercise, a healthy diet, and mental and social engagement. “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, and it can help manage the disease in its early stages.”

In addition to these preventive measures, McManus shared an overview of the 10 Signs of Alzheimer's, which can help families and caregivers identify early warning signs. These include:

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life: Repeatedly asking the same questions or forgetting conversations.
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems: Difficulty managing finances or following a recipe.
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks: Forgetting steps in a routine, like doing laundry.
4. Confusion with time or place: Not knowing the year or getting lost in familiar locations.
5. Trouble understanding visual images: Difficulty with depth perception or reading.
6. New problems with words: Struggling to find the right words or describing objects instead of using the correct terms.
7. Misplacing items: Putting things in unusual places and being unable to retrace one’s steps.
8. Decreased judgment: Making poor decisions and acting outside of social norms.
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities: Avoiding social interactions due to memory loss or embarrassment.
10. Changes in mood and personality: A distinct shift in attitude.

These early signs often can be subtle, but recognizing them is key to getting the proper care and support. McManus emphasized the earlier Alzheimer’s is diagnosed, the more options there are for treatment and care.

The session also highlighted the importance of community support in managing Alzheimer’s. Shaeleen Corea, a community health specialist with Maricopa County’s Department of Public Health, spoke about the role local initiatives play in providing resources to those affected by dementia.

 “Alzheimer's can be a deeply isolating disease for both patients and families,” Corea said. “Through collaborations like this with the library, we can reach more families, provide them with critical resources, and let them know they are not alone.”

Corea also introduced several community resources, including  memory cafés, supportive social gatherings for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Corea said these cafés offer an environment where families can find community, share experiences and gain information about Alzheimer’s care.

“The key to supporting families living with Alzheimer’s is not just the medical aspect but the community aspect,” Corea said. “These programs provide a space for people to feel heard, to share their struggles, and to find strength in each other.”

While no cure currently exists for Alzheimer’s, both McManus and Corea stressed the importance of continued support research. 

The Alzheimer’s Association funds research aimed at better understanding the disease and developing more effective treatments. McManus explained that research is critical to finding solutions, but so is raising awareness and getting people to seek help early.

As McManus concluded, “We have a long way to go, but we are making progress. Every conversation like this, every bit of information shared, is a step toward finding a cure and providing better care for those affected.”

According to Corea, the ongoing collaboration between the Maricopa County’s Department of Public Health, and the Georgia T. Lord Library continues to offer local families resources, education, and hope. 

Tuesday, Oct. 21 Corea and Maricopa County’s Department of Public Health will be back at Goodyear's library with representatives from AARP, offering resources to families. 

Visit mcldaz.org for more information.