Hereditary Alzheimer’s- Dementia Predictive
Genetic Testing

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Individuals with a personal or family history of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia should be aware of warning signs associated with these conditions. These indicators include, but are not limited to, abnormal brain imaging, motor control difficulties, memory loss impacting daily life, mood, and personality changes, difficulty with communication and familiar tasks, and temporal or spatial confusion.

Genetic Influence on Dementia

Genes play a significant role in the development of various forms of dementia, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. If an individual has a parent or sibling with dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, their risk of developing the same condition is statistically higher.

Consider Testing If You Have Personal or Family History of:

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Early Age Onset

If you or your family members exhibit any of the following early-stage symptoms, considering genetic testing may be prudent:

  • Memory Loss
  • Loss of Orientation
  • Irritability
  • Stiffness of Arms and Legs
  • Increasing Confusion
  • Problems with Speech
  • Tremors of Hands, Arms, Legs, and Trunk
  • Poor Balance Coordination
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Middle Aged

As middle age approaches, be mindful of the following symptoms that could warrant genetic testing:

  • Increasing Confusion and Disorientation
  • Obsessive, Repetitive, or Impulsive Behavior
  • Delusions (Believing Untrue Things)
  • Problems with Speech or Language (Aphasia)
  • Disturbed Sleep
  • Mood Changes, including Frequent Mood Swings, Depression, and Growing Anxiety, Frustration, or Agitation
  • Difficulty Performing Spatial Tasks, Such as Judging Distances
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Later Symptoms

In the later stages, the following symptoms might arise, indicating the need for genetic testing:

  • Difficulty Changing Position or Moving Around without Assistance
  • Considerable Weight Loss (though some individuals may eat excessively and gain weight)
  • Gradual Loss of Speech
  • Significant Problems with Short and Long-Term Memory

How to Take the Test

Watch this short video to learn how to perform the Bloom cheek swab test in the comfort of your own home.

Managing Results

Genetic testing can serve as a valuable tool in the planning and decision-making process for treatment, psychosocial counseling, and support programs for both caregivers and patients. It's also essential to consider testing family members to help assess risks. These tests can reveal whether you possess a specific gene associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Get More Facts and Figures About Alzheimer's Disease

For comprehensive information regarding Alzheimer's disease, including statistical data and additional insights, please refer to the resources available on this topic.