Millions of individuals who have dementia go undiagnosed for a long period of time, a new study reports. However, there are a number of benefits to early detection of the disease, according to WebMD Health News.Early detection can give family members enough time to plan and can open up opportunities for different treatments, according to the news provider.
"A key goal of this report is to raise awareness about the importance of early detection," Robert Egge, vice president of the Alzheimer's Association, told the news source. "It is important to know the warning signs for Alzheimer's and if you see these warning signs get to a physician for evaluation."
It is important for seniors to understand the warning signs of this cognitive disease, the news source reports. Seniors and their caregivers should look for problems completing familiar tasks, losing track of dates and seasons, trouble understanding visual images and trouble engaging in conversations.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are 5.4 million people who are affected by the disease. This number is only expected to increase dramatically as baby boomers reach retirement age and seek home care or other resources.
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