Age Specific Patient Care Related

Review Age Specific Patient Care related questions and content

A 45-year-old patient shows marked cognitive impairment that has developed progressively over several months. A family member reports that the patient's father also had early-onset dementia. What research-based information can be given to the family in response to their concerns about the patient developing early-onset dementia?

  • A. The risk for developing the condition is about 50% only if both parents were affected.
  • B. The greatest risk exists for relatives of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer disease before age 55 years.
  • C. Added risk is present only for people with Down syndrome, so relatives without Down syndrome are essentially "safe."
  • D. Results of the research on genetic predisposition and its effect on the development of early-onset dementia are still unclear.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because individuals with a family history of early-onset dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease before age 55, are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves. This is supported by research showing a strong genetic component in the development of early-onset dementia. Choice A is incorrect because the risk is not solely dependent on both parents being affected. Choice C is incorrect as early-onset dementia is not limited to individuals with Down syndrome. Choice D is incorrect because research has shown a clear link between genetic predisposition and early-onset dementia.