.png)
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, and it can lead to memory loss and other diminished cognitive abilities. Unfortunately, millions of Americans are currently suffering from this condition. Alzheimer’s can affect younger people, but is primarily found among adults over the age of 65.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but there is strong evidence that medical marijuana may help treat some of the symptoms, helping improve the quality of life for those struggling with dementia. Getting a medical marijuana card may be the key to easing some of the symptoms for Missouri residents who are struggling with this progressive condition.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative form of dementia that begins with memory loss and can lead to a person’s inability to carry on a conversation and/or respond to their environment. It can be scary, not only to patients, but to their loved ones who must watch as the disease gets worse.
According to the Center for Disease Control, Alzheimer’s affected more than 5.8 million Americans in 2020. They predict numbers will triple by the year 2060, to nearly 14 million. The risk for Alzheimer’s increases with age, doubling every 5 years after a person reaches the age of 65.
Early Alzheimer’s and Dementia Warning Signs
Alzheimer’s and dementia patients may not notice the signs on their own, so it is important for caretakers and loved ones to keep an eye out for the warning signs of dementia. According to AARP, here are some things to look out for:
Difficulty with everyday tasks - these are usually simple tasks they have been doing for years. If they suddenly have trouble following a recipe or forgetting to pay their bills, this may be an early sign.
Repetition - If they keep re-telling a story they’ve already told or repeatedly ask the same question, this could also be a sign that something is wrong.
Getting Lost - Dementia patients often have issues with space and visual cues. If a patient gets lost while driving, especially in an area that they should know, you should take note.
Problems Communicating - If you notice a loved one is spacing out in the middle of conversations, or has trouble following a line of thought, that could be another cause for concern.
Time and Location Confusion - If they have difficulty remembering where they are or when it is, this is a red flag.
Changes in their personality - Keep an eye out for things such as sudden depression, acting out, or anxious behavior that is out of character for how they normally act.
Concerning Behavior - Any behavior that seems out of place, like inattention to hygiene or poor judgment with money handling could be a sign that something is wrong.
If you suspect you or a loved one has Alzheimer’s, get them to a primary care physician, who will most likely refer them to a specialist to run some tests and decide next steps.
How can medical marijuana help?
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s. But there are ways to improve the quality of life for patients suffering with this condition.
It can be scary and confusing dealing with Alzheimer’s. The good news is that there is evidence to suggest medical marijuana may “have a calming effect on some of the behavioral symptoms of dementia.” Research is still in the early stages, but studies have shown that cannabis can help with agitation and aggression in some cases.
The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease published a study that showed small doses of THC slowed the production of proteins linked to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Another study from the Salk Institute demonstrated cannabis helped in the removal of a protein that is known to cause Alzheimer’s.
Included among the Alzheimer’s symptoms that medical marijuana can help alleviate are aggression, insomnia, hallucinations, anxiety, and depression. This means that those suffering from this condition may have a much better quality of life when adding medical marijuana to their treatment plan.
There’s no time like the present to discuss medical marijuana.
If a loved one demonstrates dementia-related behavior or has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, or if you are a caretaker for an Alzheimer’s patient, now may be the time to talk about whether or not cannabis is right for them.
Get the recommendation from a doctor who understands their condition, and work with that physician to supervise your treatment plan. Before bringing up cannabis with their doctor, if possible, we would recommend having a frank discussion about medical marijuana with your loved one, explaining that, while the research is new, studies suggest the natural, healing relief of cannabis may be able to help with their symptoms.
Get them relief. Because you love them.
If you or someone you are caring for is ready to experience the healing relief cannabis can provide, you’ll need a Missouri medical marijuana card. We can help you with that. Our doctors are ready to take you through a quick and easy evaluation to see if you or your loved one qualifies. Schedule an appointment with a Missouri medical marijuana physician online by CLICKING HERE, or give us a call at (877) 303-3117 to talk to a patient support representative.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Missouri Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (877) 303-3117, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
Check out Missouri Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to join the medical marijuana conversation in Missouri!