Newswise — Despite the belief that early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is crucial, a new Rutgers study found that the diagnosis may unintentionally impact social relationships and activity.
The study, published in the journal Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, examined how receiving a recent diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias impacts social networks, social engagement and social support.
“Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are a public health priority that has a significant impact on people with these diseases, their families and society,” said lead author Takashi Amano, an assistant professor in the Department of Social Work at Rutgers University-Newark. “In recent years, health professionals have wanted to diagnose people earlier because of benefits like better long-term care planning and less anxiety. While…
