Runs in the family? - Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Message Board

Lilliput · 08-30-2006, 11:41 AM

I'm new to this forum and am looking for information about alzheimer's. I have 3 out of 5 aunts, all on my father's side, who have been diagnosed with alzheimer's. One is in the final stages and can no longer function. She is completely bed-ridden. One is suffering dimentia and is in a home. The other has just been diagnosed and is in the early stages. Their ages range from 65 to 80 years old. Even stranger, the younger one is in the worst shape and the eldest has only just been diagnosed. There are 3 uncles and none of them have alzheimers. What are the chances of this being a genetic defect? Should my sisters and I get tested, or is it too soon to worry about it? If anyone can suggest a few good resources I would be grateful.

Still young, but wondering.

Martha H · 08-30-2006, 12:48 PM

In my opinion there is no reason in the world to find out in your youth that you may get Alzheimer's when yu're 65 or 80! First of all by then there will be a cure or a genetic manipulation to stop it, and certainly medicines to cure it. So enjoy your lovely young life and don't worry about the far off future. Enjoy each day, help others, and laugh and love a lot.

Martha

needtoescape · 08-31-2006, 02:30 PM

Lilliput,
I agree with Martha. I would not get tested if I were you. From everything I've read about the genetic tests - you can have the genetic markers and NOT develop AD - and you can develop AD WITHOUT the genetic markers. The way it was explained to me - is that the test is only useful in confirming the likelihood that the problem is AD when dementia is already present.

Also, I don't trust the privacy of the medical system as it relates to insurance issues. I wouldn't want the genetic test results a part of my record and risk that some insurance company would deny me health insurance as a result.

If you're concerned about developing AD, you might consider taking out long term health care insurance for yourself at a younger age when it is much cheaper. I wish that I had done so for myself and my husband.

Other than that, I would just try to do the things that are good for health in general (eat healthy and exercise) and enjoy your life, as Martha said.

n2e