On the Humanity Hiker Facebook page I post many articles related to lifestyle choices and Alzheimer’s. I post none about drug research; pharmaceuticals have their own PR machine. I also post none about Alzheimer’s testing; insurance companies have their own PR machine as well.
Even though they test for the gene associated with Alzheimer’s for their research at the University of Maryland, Carson cautioned against such testing for one’s personal information. He pointed out that the genetic association is not infallible. You might have no genetic predisposition towards Alzheimer’s yet fall victim to the disease; you might have a genetic predisposition yet avoid the affliction. In the latter case one would worry needlessly, diminishing their quality of life in the process.
Yet the more important reason not to know your genetic predisposition is what insurance companies might do with that information. Keep that in mind when you read articles touting the need for genetic testing. It’s allegedly for your sake, but in reality it’s for the sake of those who invest the time and money in those press releases and news articles telling us why we should get tested; to help their pocketbook.
In the meantime there are two avenues for those concerned about getting Alzheimer’s. The first is to do all those things that are good for your mind, body and soul. Get plenty of exercise; eat right; engage your mind; listen to music; be social; etc. It’s not just good for preventing Alzheimer’s; it’s good for everything. For those still concerned, or for some reason refuse to do what’s good for themselves unless compelled by the bad news of a test, there are a variety of mental tests out there. I will cover a few of these eventually.
Carson cautioned against relying on mental tests as well, but at least these have two things going for them. They are practical tests; whether or not you have Alzheimer’s if you are struggling with a mental test you might want to do something about that. They also can be completely confidential, known only to you and in no way available to an insurance company down the road.
