Stolen Memories: Problems with diagnosis of younger-onset Alzheimer’s

When a patient under 65 complains about memory loss, confusion and problems at work, it seldom leads to a quick, clear diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Studies by the association have estimated that as many as 50 percent of people of all ages with the disease never receive a diagnosis. Meanwhile, because of this delay, younger people encounter problems at work as a result of symptoms. Because of the delay in diagnosis, it’s not uncommon for patients with early dementia to get fired, or move from job to job. “Usually, the person with Alzheimer’s is the last to know there are problems,” said Geoffrey Vitt, a New Hampshire attorney who has represented Alzheimer’s patients in cases against employers.
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