A new study has emphasised the importance of the early detection and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia - it currently affects around 35,000 people in Ireland. Symptoms can include memory loss, disorientation, mood swings and problems with language.

There is no cure for the disease and while some treatments can reduce symptoms, they cannot stop its progression.

However, according to the findings of this study, those who are diagnosed and treated in the early stages of the disease, are significantly better able to manage their everyday activities. They also display fewer psychological and behavioural symptoms associated with Alzheimer's.

Finnish scientists monitored the progress of people with the disease over a three-year period. All had been diagnosed in the mild or very mild stages of Alzheimer's and all were treated with standard healthcare.

The study found that those who were diagnosed with very mild Alzheimer's, and who were started on Alzheimer's-targeted treatment at this point, were better at managing their everyday activities compared to people diagnosed at a more advanced stage.

They also displayed fewer psychological and behavioural symptoms during follow-up appointments.

The scientists from the University of Eastern Finland said these findings are important because people with Alzheimer's may be able to live longer at home if they can manage their daily activities.

Details of these findings were presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) in Boston and are due to be published in the journal, International Psychogeriatrics.

For more information on Alzheimer's, see our Alzheimer's Clinic here