Should You Get Genetic Testing for Alzheimer’s Disease?

With more and more research coming to light in terms of genetic links to a variety of diseases including Alzheimer’s, we are faced with the dilemma of whether we want to know about it beforehand.  Dr. Isaacson, director of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine’s Neurology Department in New York, says that dealing with the knowledge of an impending disease like Alzheimer’s years before a person is ill may not be productive.  He states that, “While genetic testing predicts risk, it certainly does not diagnose whether dangerous plaques or other symptoms of Alzheimer’s already exist in the brain,” and “implementing prevention measures early-on may be a better option than genetic testing”

  

So what does genetic testing for Alzheimer’s tell a person?  For one thing, even if the ApoE4 gene is discovered, a person may be at risk for Alzheimer’s but not necessarily develop the disease.  Issues such as inflammation, obesity and other factors may need to be present before the disease can occur.  So if you get a positive result for the ApoE4 gene, it has not taken into account these other factors.

Researchers say a better solution is to focus on tests that can detect the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s.  Right now a test is available but it is very expensive.  The advantage to discovering pre-Alzheimer’s in people still in their 40s or 50 is that early interventions and treatments can be started. 

MorningStar of Sparks’ provides Reno assisted living and quality, compassionate memory care.   Our Reflections Neighborhood has 29 secure suites and can care for someone in the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease right through to the most advanced stages.  Please visit our website to learn about our individualized care as well as pricing and availability information.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other Reno assisted living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amidst a peaceful setting.  Please contact us to set up a tour of the finest senior living in the Reno/Sparks area.

Source: aplaceformom.com/blog/should-you-rely-on-an-at-home-genetic-test-for-alzheimers/