Alzheimer's and Genetic Testing

Do you have loved ones living with Alzheimer’s? Are you concerned about your own risk and considering genetic testing? You're not alone. Navigating this journey can feel overwhelming, but support is available. I spent a hour today listening to the below podcast, relevant to this very topic. If you are considering this pathway this may be helpful.

They discuss referral to a Genetic Counselor can be an important first step. Genetic Counselors help you understand your genetic test results and guide you through the next steps based on your concerns. Whether you're experiencing symptoms or are currently asymptomatic, these professionals provide insight, context, and compassionate care during what can be an emotionally complex time.

If you’re considering testing, remember:

• You can choose not to undergo genetic testing. This is a deeply personal decision.

• If you do proceed, it’s important to have a care team in place—family, medical professionals, and mental health support—to help you process the results and make informed decisions.

• Navigating genetic testing on your own, especially through third-party companies, can be confusing and isolating.

🔗 What is a Genetic Counselor?Learn more: Coursera - Genetic Counselor Overview

📝 Note on Costs:Approval from the Ministry of Health is required if you’re seeking publicly funded genetic testing, and the process can take some time. Alternatively, private testing is available but comes at a cost.

🎧 Recommended Listen:If you're exploring the idea of genetic testing for Alzheimer’s or Young Onset Dementia, we highly recommend this episode from the Dementia Dialogue podcast:

Guest host Jillian McConnell speaks with Dr. Mario Masellis, associate scientist and clinician at Sunnybrook, and assistant professor of neurology at the University of Toronto. They discuss:

• What genetic testing looks like for individuals with a close family member living with Young Onset Dementia

• How this type of testing differs from testing for other diseases

• Who is a good candidate

• The implications of deciding to test—or not to test

🔗 Listen here: Early Onset Dementia Series – Dementia Dialogue

As always I hope this information is useful,

Danielle Pointon

Live Blue Consulting

PS Last week I had a funny conversation, with a person living with Dementia. They said "wow that's a fluffy sweater you are wearing, it looks warm." I said "Yes is it warm, Do you like it? " They said "God NO", "You wanted me to be honest!" All humour aside LOVE, PATIENCE and UNDERSTANDING is really a big part of the recipe a care team must have.