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🧠 Alzheimer’s Dementia – Understanding, Caring, and Living Well – Internist geriatrician PCP Georgetown TX

  • Writer: Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
    Dr. Mohammad Al Darawsha MD
  • Aug 8, 2025
  • 3 min read

Alzheimer’s dementia can feel overwhelming — for the person experiencing it and for loved ones. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, our approach is built on kindness, time, and respect, helping you navigate memory loss with clear guidance and compassionate care.

If you’re looking for a supportive internist, geriatrician, or PCP in Georgetown TX, you’re in the right place.


🔍 What Is Alzheimer’s Dementia?

Alzheimer’s dementia is a progressive brain condition that affects memory, thinking, and daily functioning. While it is the most common cause of dementia in older adults, it’s not a normal part of aging — and early recognition matters.


📌 Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but factors include:

  • Abnormal buildup of proteins in the brain (amyloid plaques & tau tangles)

  • Age (most common after 65)

  • Family history or certain genes

  • Heart and vascular health issues

  • Chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

  • Head injuries

  • Smoking and sedentary lifestyle


🛡️ Prevention & Risk Reduction

While we can’t guarantee prevention, these habits may lower risk:

  • Staying physically active

  • Eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet (Mediterranean or DASH)

  • Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar

  • Staying socially engaged

  • Challenging the brain (learning, reading, puzzles)

  • Getting quality sleep

  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol


🧠 Pathophysiology (How It Affects the Brain)

Alzheimer’s leads to damage and death of brain cells due to protein deposits that disrupt communication between neurons. Over time, brain shrinkage affects memory centers (hippocampus) and other regions controlling thinking, judgment, and personality.


🧪 Investigations & Diagnosis by Internist geriatrician PCP Georgetown TX

At our family medical clinic in Georgetown TX, we offer:

  • Medical history and cognitive testing

  • Physical and neurological exams

  • Lab tests to rule out reversible causes (vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues)

  • Brain imaging (MRI or CT) if needed

  • Referrals for specialized neuropsychological testing


💊 Treatment Options

While there’s no cure, treatments can slow symptoms and improve quality of life:

  • Medications: Donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine, memantine

  • Managing associated conditions (blood pressure, depression, sleep issues)

  • Occupational therapy for safety and daily function

  • Caregiver education and support


🌿 Home Remedies & Lifestyle Tips

Simple changes can make a big difference:

  • Routine & structure for daily tasks

  • Labeling rooms and drawers for easy navigation

  • Soft, calming music to ease anxiety

  • Balanced meals and hydration

  • Gentle physical activity

  • Keeping lighting bright to reduce confusion

  • Staying connected with loved ones


⏳ When to See a Doctor

Make an appointment with an internist, geriatrician, or PCP in Georgetown TX if you or a loved one:

  • Notice persistent memory loss or confusion

  • Struggle with daily tasks that were once easy

  • Get lost in familiar places

  • Have changes in personality or mood

  • Show difficulty with language or problem-solving

Early evaluation can uncover treatable causes — and even when it’s Alzheimer’s, starting support early improves outcomes.


❓ Top 10 FAQs – Alzheimer’s Dementia

1. Is Alzheimer’s the same as dementia?

No — Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia, but not the only one.

2. Can younger people get Alzheimer’s?

Yes, early-onset Alzheimer’s can appear before 65, though it’s rare.

3. Does memory loss always mean Alzheimer’s?

No — it can be due to stress, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, or other treatable issues.

4. Are there new treatments?

Yes — newer medications may help slow progression when started early.

5. Can diet help?

A heart-healthy diet supports brain health and may reduce risk.

6. Does exercise make a difference?

Absolutely — regular activity supports blood flow to the brain.

7. Should I get genetic testing?

Not always necessary — we can discuss whether it’s right for you.

8. Can supplements help?

Omega-3s, vitamin D, and antioxidants may support brain health — ask us before starting any.

9. How can families cope?

Support groups, respite care, and counseling can help avoid caregiver burnout.

10. Why Wellness Bay?

Because we combine medical expertise with genuine listening and a patient-first approach.

💬 Let’s Keep You Healthy, Together

The Medicare Wellness Visit is your chance to pause, plan, and protect your future health. At Wellness Bay Primary Care, we make this visit meaningful, respectful, and centered on you.

📍 Visit us at 4887 Williams Dr Ste 107, Georgetown TX

📞 Call 512.588.7008 or📲 Book online


Proudly, our Internal Medicine Primary Care Practice is Accepting new patients From:

Georgetown, Sun City, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Leander, Liberty Hill, Florence, Jarrell, Taylor, Hutto, Pflugerville, North Austin, Brushy Creek, Temple, Harker Heights, Bartram, Lampasas, Killeen, Lago Vista, and surrounding areas across Williamson County and North Austin TX


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Internist geriatrician PCP Georgetown TX

 
 
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