Differentiating Early Signs of Alzheimer Disease From Normal Signs of Aging and Determining Best Next Steps

TARGET AUDIENCE:
This educational activity is designed for physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and the multidisciplinary healthcare team who treat patients with, or at risk for, Alzheimer’s disease.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW/Activitiy Purpose
Alzheimer disease is associated with a significant burden for patients, their caregivers, and society, and these burdens will increase sharply as the number of patients increases over the next few decades. However, earlier diagnosis can help patients take control of their condition, live independently for a longer period of time, participate in care decisions, and address legal and financial considerations; moreover, earlier diagnosis can enable earlier intervention to prolong independence and functioning, and improve quality of life. Unfortunately, pharmacological treatment options are significantly underutilized, leading to suboptimal patient management and highlighting the need for the appropriate use of therapies to improve clinical practices and patient outcomes.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
• Identify the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease to differentiate it from other neurodegenerative disorders and normal aging to gain confidence in making a diagnosis
• Use appropriate cognitive, biomarker, and imaging tests in clinical practice to improve diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease
• Interpret appropriate cognitive, biomarker, and imaging tests in clinical practice to improve diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease
• Describe current pharmacologic treatment options for the management of Alzheimer’s disease