Even if your a healthy senior, should you be getting tested for Alzheimer’s? Many adults fear the possibility of getting Alzheimer’s as they age. The thought of losing their memories and cognitive function can be scary for anyone. Find out whether or not getting tested for Alzheimer’s is beneficial
What to Consider When Getting Tested for Alzheimer’s
If you could do something to prevent it, wouldn’t you? The answer isn’t quite as clear-cut as a simple “yes” or “no.” In fact, a number of medical professionals are opposed to the idea of Alzheimer’s testing. Read these three reasons why.
If obvious symptoms aren’t showing it can be difficult to carry out testing. That’s why tests are usually discouraged for Alzheimer’s.
No Definitive Tests
Risk can’t be predicted with any certainty, only tests can tell you if you have a higher probability of developing the disease. Many people who develop Alzheimer’s don’t have any genetic markers that give away evidence. The only thing being done is revealing if you have an increased risk for developing Alzheimer’s later in life.
Unneeded Stress
Knowing the results of a test that show the risk of developing an incurable disease can cause unneeded stress. Of course there are factors you can take into account for decreasing your risk, but is it worth it.
Can’t Be Covered If You Know
In addition to covering brain scans or genetic testing for Alzheimer’s, life insurance businesses and long-term care insurers may use the outcomes of genetic testing to deny coverage to those at risk. Health care firms are not permitted to discriminate based on the outcomes of genetic testing, but the law does not apply to life insurance firms or long-term insurance companies.
Should You Get Tested?
However, concerns about the mental health of seniors may be unfounded. Recent studies have shown that individuals who understand their APOE gene status are no more anxious or depressed than individuals who do not understand their danger of Alzheimer’s development.
But, there’s data individuals want. In specific, some elderly want to be able to organize their private life and prepare their families for the concept of getting sick.
If your loved one chooses to understand the danger of developing Alzheimer’s, many genetic counselors recommend you to get life insurance and long-term care insurance before you go in for testing.
Fairmont Grand Senior Living Community
Fairmont Grand is a resident centered senior living and memory care facility in Rapid City, SD. Our goal is to create an environment where resident well-being is at the heart of everything we do.
Our wide range of services are designed to meet you or your loved one’s daily needs. We offer restaurant style dining options, a variety of physical activities, and give residents the opportunity to live as independently as possible.
If you or a loved one near Rapid City, South Dakota are considering assisted living or memory care, contact Fairmont Grand to learn more about individualized living options or tour our community.
