Is Alzheimer's hereditary?
I am 48 years old and I lost my father to Alzheimer's and last week my 66 year old brother passed from Alzheimer's. My mother has also passed away. My immediate family is gone. I have asked my doctor if I should be tested for Alzheimer's. She told me that it is only 50/50 correct. Does anyone have the same issues in their family?
Expert Answer
There is no test for Alzheimer's disease unless the cause of their AD is caused by a "bad" gene and you know what the bad gene is. My best advice is to make sure that you keep your blood pressure under control, exercise to maintain a healthy weight, wear a helmet if you go bike riding and keep you mind active. do crossword puzzles, sudoku, sign in a choir, anything but watching television will stimulate your mind. The Alzheimer's Association has a "Maintain Your Brain" program you can find on line at www.alz.org