Just 45 percent of people with Alzheimer's disease or those who care for them report being told the diagnosis by their physician, according to a report from the Alzheimer's Association.
Additionally, many Alzheimer's patients or their caregivers said they were told the diagnosis by their physician after the disease had already become advanced.
By not disclosing an Alzheimer's diagnosis, physicians aren't respecting patient's autonomy or empowering them, said Beth Kallmyer, vice president constituent services for the Alzheimer's Association. "When a diagnosis is disclosed, they [patients] can better understand the changes they are experiencing, maximize their quality of life and often play an active role in planning for the future," she said.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, early disclosure should be standard practice.
"Based on the principles of medical ethics, there is widespread agreement among healthcare professionals that people have the right to know and understand their diagnosis, including Alzheimer's disease," said William Klunk, MD, PhD, chair of the Alzheimer's Association Medical and Scientific Advisory Council. "The findings in this report shine a light on the need for more education for medical students and practicing healthcare providers on how to effectively make and delivery an Alzheimer's diagnosis."
The findings were released as part of the Alzheimer's Association's 2015 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures report.