An Interview With Memory Care Expert Dr. Sandra Petersen
Dr. Sandra Petersen created the Connections Program for memory care, which is used at The Village at Rancho Solano in Fairfield, CA.
Her idea of using neuroplasticity treatments, like the ones that helped her recover from a stroke over a decade ago, is improving lives for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss dementia.
At-home screening tools for dementia like the Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam (SAGE) are gaining popularity to self-diagnose neurocognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s. But, can a self-administered test be trusted to detect Alzheimer’s earlier than ever?
In this interview, our memory care expert will explain:
- Whether SAGE tests are helpful
- What the research behind the tests says
- What the difference is between normal aging and dementia
- What to do if a loved one starts exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s
This interview was edited for length and clarity.
Are SAGE tests detecting early-onset Alzheimer’s?
COMMUNITY: Dr. Petersen, what are your feelings about the research into at-home dementia tests?
Dr. Petersen: While I have mixed feelings about this research, my thoughts skew positively for dementia screening tools.
Anything that raises awareness of the symptoms of progressive neurocognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s and boosts early detection is a positive. Hopefully, such tools will hasten someone’s efforts to get to a provider for a proper diagnosis.
Does earlier detection lead to better outcomes?
Recent studies have shown that an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis can lead to treatment or therapies that can help manage the progression of the disease. From a quality of life perspective, this is critically important.
Early diagnosis and treatment of symptoms can extend a person’s independence, improve brain function, and reduce the severity of symptoms in some cases.
Additionally, with an early diagnosis, the person may benefit from participating in clinical trials that contribute to the body of research that will help us in the future.
Do you think dementia screening tools like SAGE are helpful? Why or why not?
I think using tools like this is helpful because it raises awareness of the symptoms of neurocognitive decline. These dementia screening tools may also push someone to seek a general practitioner assessment or join a clinical trial once a diagnosis is made.
However, screens for dementia of this sort may also cause unnecessary alarm in the hands of a layperson who could self-diagnose a loved one with cognitive impairment when their issue might be a sensory loss such as impaired hearing or vision.
A proper diagnosis would get them the help they need.
If the person with an abnormal screening is found to have cognitive issues, early screening and detection are a “plus” and allow the individual time to plan for the future.
Are there other tools or methods that professionals may use to diagnose dementia?
Yes. For instance, the clock drawing test is a widely-used and incredibly simple tool for evaluating cognitive function.
The individual is asked to draw a clock and place the hands to indicate a specific time. Though straightforward, the test can reveal cognitive impairments linked to Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. However, it should only be administered and interpreted by a trained healthcare provider, as improper use or analysis can lead to incorrect conclusions.
Combining tools like SAGE or the clock drawing test with a full professional evaluation can ensure accuracy and help provide the correct path forward. Early detection is always a step toward improving the quality of life for those experiencing memory decline.
How does someone with Alzheimer’s plan for the future?
Early diagnosis of neurocognitive disorders allows one to plan for future health care needs. It may prevent the person from making decisions that could negatively impact them, like planning a move away from family or friends.
Early diagnosis also gives the person a voice in financial matters or senior care options. When families know their loved ones’ wishes in advance, they can help with placement much more easily.
What are the signs of aging with dementia?
Neurocognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s are pervasive and progressive. It’s a pattern that leads to losing the ability to function independently.
Mild cognitive impairment symptoms could include getting lost coming home from your job of twenty years or difficulty with familiar tasks like making coffee. Some individuals with dementia may frequently find themselves disoriented to time and place. Others may demonstrate poor judgment and make poor decisions.
Most are unaware that a memory problem exists and may become irritable if others point it out.
Day-to-day functioning often declines, and recent memory becomes poor, even with the help of cues. Repeating the same things over and over usually becomes painfully apparent to those around the person. Mixing up memories or the inability to recall sequences of events may occur. People may call their husband their brother, for example.
So, is there a difference between normal aging and dementia?
We can expect to see a decline in processing speed with normal aging while vocabulary and recognition of relationships remain intact. Following a chain of events or a conversation may be more difficult with aging, but cueing usually helps the person remember.
Individuals with normal aging usually know memory problems exist but can function despite forgetfulness. Like anyone else, they might occasionally make a poor decision, but overall, they function as they always have.
Continued learning of new things or following directions to a new place may prove more difficult as we age, but life is maintained, even if a bit of help is required from time to time.
What should people do if they notice early warning signs in themselves or a loved one?
When memory problems look more like those associated with neurocognitive decline, it is time to see your health care provider for a diagnosis of dementia.
It’s time to seek help when problems involve unsafe behaviors like wandering, getting lost, or being unable to return home from a familiar place. Losing abilities like dressing and proper hygiene also signal the time to seek a screening test.
Even if the memory problems are minor, getting reassurance from your health care provider may be helpful.
About The Connections Memory Care Program
Connections is a signature service available at The Village at Rancho Solano in Fairfield, CA. The structure and relief provided in our memory care program allows loved one’s with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia to live with purpose.
In our secure and calming environment, memory loss-trained team members provide opportunities for:
- Socialization and forming new relationships
- Engaging the emotions through art and reminiscence therapy
- Challenging the brain with puzzles and word games
- Movement and physical activity adapted to their individual needs
This specialized form of assisted living allows families to have more quality time together.
Learn More About Dementia Screening Tools and Memory Care Near You
We’re happy to be a resource in your search for care in Fairfield. Contact us today to speak with a dementia care expert or arrange a tour.