Difficulty finding words or recognizing familiar places can deserve medical attention even when memory loss is not the first problem, Alzheimer’s advocates told WITF in a discussion about diagnosis and care.

Michael Stanford described how his late wife, Marcia, began struggling with speech at 48. The couple sought answers for years before testing identified Alzheimer’s disease.

Stanford appeared on The Spark with Michael Galvan, government relations director for the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Pennsylvania. The conversation aired October 16.

Galvan said earlier diagnosis can help families consider treatment and prepare for future care. The guests also emphasized help for caregivers navigating difficult decisions.

The Alzheimer’s Association says amyloid-targeting treatments can slow cognitive and functional decline in selected people with early Alzheimer’s disease. They do not cure the disease.

Treatments including lecanemab and donanemab require medical assessment. The association identifies amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, including swelling or bleeding in the brain, as a potential risk requiring monitoring.

Galvan also discussed Pennsylvania House Bill 2734, which he described as an effort to expand treatment coverage in state-regulated plans. The interview described proposed legislation, rather than an enacted coverage guarantee.

Stanford said the association’s round-the-clock helpline helped him during his wife’s illness. Families can reach it at 800-272-3900 for information and support.

Sources: WITF: The Spark; Alzheimer’s Association: treatment options; Alzheimer’s Association: lecanemab