Report: Memory problems linked to slower Alzheimer’s decline

A new study looks at patients’ recall on memories, and when that started to change.

Cleveland Clinic Health is finding initial memory problems are linked with a slower rate of decline in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

According to the study’s lead author, patients with language problems, spatial ability and judgment issues seemed to be affected more over a period of time – specifically in their daily functional abilities.

Dr. Jagan Pillai says a person with memory difficulties could find other ways to compensate, like keeping track of what they’re doing by recording themselves or writing down notes, which would allow them to remain functional.

Recalling memories also come from another part of the brain than language problems, so how the disease progresses, could be different.

“The portion of the brain that’s first impacted by the disease tends to determine the symptoms that goes along with the disease and also the kind of progression from there to other regions,” said Pillai.

Having this information available can better help physicians diagnose patients and prepare them for the future, he added.