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Date Posted 18/01/10
Question >
My mother is 67 and starting to forget quite a number of things, mainly words or conversations had etc. She has also got problems with short term memory. Is this an early sign of Alzheimers?
Answer >
Memory impairment is one of the early signs of Alzheimer's disease. The symptoms you descibe should be evaluated.
Many people as they get older experience a decline in memory function, particularly short term memory. For most this is viewed as
part of the ageing process, without significant imapct on daily life. We know however that for some the memory decline continues and eventually it becomes
clear that the problem is more that what is often termed age related memory loss.
Date Posted 29/06/08
Question >
How can I take part in one of the research studies at Glasgow Memory Clinic?
Answer >
You can contact us by telephone and a member of staff will take some details from you. This will involve questions about your current and past health and details of any current medications. If your are thought to be potentially suitable then an initial appointment will be arranged for you to be reviewed. This can take place within a couple of weeks and after that we will be able to give you an indication if one of our research programs might be suitable for you.
Date Posted 29/06/08
Question >
Our mother has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease but has not been started on any treatment. We were informed that her condition is still in the early stages. Can you explain the reason why no treatment has been started?
Answer >
The situation you describe is not necessarily that uncommon. The NICE guideline for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease no longer recommends treatment for those in the early stage of Alzheimer's disease and there has been alot of discussion about this between many concerned groups.
One of the tests that is routinely used in assessing dementia due to Alzheimer's disease is the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). To qualify for treatment according to the NICE guidline the MMSE score has to be 20 or less. I suspect therefore that your mother currently has a score of greater than 20 hence the reason why no treatment has been prescribed.
Date Posted 15/06/08
Question >
A family member has Alzheimer's disease and is currently on treatment with Aricept. Could they take part in a study of a new Alzheimer's treatment?
Answer >
Yes. Many studies are specifically designed to allow individuals to participate who have Alzheimer's disease and who are currently receiving Alzheimer's therapy e.g. Aricept (Donepezil), Exelon (Rivastigmine), Reminyl (Galantamine), Ebixa (Memantine). Participation in a study allows access to potential new treatments in addition to standard Alzheimer's therapy.
Date Posted 15/05/08
Question >
Our Uncle has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease but has not been started on any treatment because his memory score is still quite high. Could he participate in one of your research studies and receive a treatment that way?
Answer >
Yes, potentially he could. It is important to remember that many studies are placebo controlled but there are other studies where all participants receive active medication and this would certainly offer some treatment in this situation. We would of course need to see your Uncle for assessment and review of his medical history and medications to assess his suitability for one of the research studies
Date Posted 11/05/08
Question >
Is there any charge for attending the clinic?
Answer >
No, there is no charge at all. All medical care, attention and treatment is provided completely free of charge.