It can be hard to recognize or admit to possible signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Often, family members are the first to notice memory loss, confusion or other symptoms of dementia. If you or your loved one is experiencing changes in thinking or behavior, it’s important to make an appointment with your primary care provider as soon as possible. Early diagnosis provides more options for treatment, care planning, and access to supportive services.
The dementia specialists at Banner Health’s Centers of Excellence for memory disorders take an integrative approach when testing for and diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease. We use advanced tools to identify changes in the brain that may signal disease progression. Our team is here to support people with Alzheimer and their families at every step.
There is no single test for Alzheimer’s disease. Instead, our care team uses a combination of evaluations, brain scans, lab tests and cognitive assessments to understand the cause of symptoms.
An early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can help preserve cognitive function longer and give individuals and caregivers more time to plan for the future.
Your doctor will ask questions about symptoms, medications, daily function and behavior changes. Talking with family or a close friend can help provide more detail about changes they’ve observed over time.
Lab testing can rule out other causes of cognitive changes such as low vitamin levels, thyroid problems or infections. Blood tests may also measure beta-amyloid and tau biomarkers, which can be linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Doctors may use screening tools to check cognitive impairment including:
Some patients also complete neuropsychological testing, which takes a deeper look at thinking abilities compared with others of similar age and educational background.
Advanced brain imaging helps evaluate the structure and function of the brain:
These imaging tests help confirm whether changes are consistent with Alzheimer’s or another condition.
A lumbar puncture collects cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Testing this fluid can detect amyloid and tau proteins, another important tool for Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
Sometimes symptoms of dementia may be caused by another health condition such as depression, sleep disorders, side effects of medication, or metabolic problems. Identifying the correct cause leads to better treatment and support.
If Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed, Banner Health provides compassionate care, ongoing monitoring and resources to help you and your loved ones move forward with confidence.
If you’re concerned about changes in memory or behavior, don’t wait. Talk to your doctor or schedule an appointment with a Banner Health memory care specialist today.
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