Accurate diagnosis is critical

Memory loss or other symptoms of dementia may be caused by a number of conditions. So it's important to get diagnosed quickly and correctly. A diagnosis of young-onset Alzheimer's may take longer because it's not expected in younger adults. Or you might be told you have the disease when you don't. These problems can lead to delays in care.

Also, it's important to rule out treatable conditions that can cause dementia-like symptoms.

An early diagnosis also is important for personal and professional reasons. For you and your family, the diagnosis is needed to help your family respond with appropriate understanding and compassion. It also can give you and your family more time to make important decisions about financial and legal issues.

At work, an early diagnosis can allow you to explain your condition to your employer and perhaps arrange a lighter workload or more convenient schedule.

An early diagnosis also may allow you to take medicines that target the buildup of amyloid in the brain caused by Alzheimer's. These are called antiamyloid medicines. They appear to be most effective when given in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.