According to the experts, dementia is a progressive brain dysfunction which results in a restriction of daily activities and, in most cases, leads to the need for long term care. The probability of suffering from dementia increases with advancing age, most often after the age of 65. About half of those affected by dementia suffer from Alzheimer's disease.

The relatives of people with dementia can also suffer since the people affected suffer significant changes and often need extended care. The most commonly known symptom of Alzheimer's disease is confusion and “disconnection” from others.

People with Alzheimer’s disease suffer from impaired memory and orientation, limitations of concentration, judgment errors, personality changes, speech, and walking disorders. During the course of Alzheimer's disease, patients lose their independence in managing everyday life. They become more and more dependent on the care of others.

The most important thing to know when a loved one shows possible signs of dementia is that it may not be due to Alzheimer’s disease. There are other causes and conditions which cause memory loss and can be treated.

The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine has a network of 24 primary provider sites throughout Illinois which are made up of physicians, nurses, health professionals, and nursing home staff who are trained to identify patients who may have Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia disorders.

These 24 primary provider sites receive patients in the local communities where patients live. Although there is no known test to determine if someone has Alzheimer’s disease, there are tests for other conditions with similar symptoms. Many times Alzheimer’s disease can be diagnosed through the process of elimination of these other memory disorders.

The SIUC School of Medicine primary provider sites are located in the Family Practice Center in Carbondale; the Family Counseling Centers in Vienna, Golconda, and Elizabethtown; and the Good Samaritan Regional Health Center in Mt. Vernon. For more information, contact a Memory & Aging Clinic near you.

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For information on Alzheimer’s Disease, support groups for caregivers, and Care Track call the Southern Illinois chapter of the Alzheimer’s Disease Association.

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