This past week was my grandmother’s 87th birthday. Recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, she is currently taking medication to slow the progression. She is still a saucy lady; always has been! Her conversation was quick with both wit and complaint pertaining to various happenings in her life. Toward the end of our tele visit this week, I stated,"You sound great!" Her reply, "There isn’t anything wrong with my mouth!"

The next day, I worked with a patient in her early 80’s, also recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Reviewing the health history, she was not taking medication for ALZ. Her ability to reason and perform routine tasks were an obvious challenge. Her oral hygiene was poor and her mouth looked sore. She was a delightful and cooperative patient. Thankfully, her son agreed to bring her in every 3 months for maintenance care.

Although medication for this disease is somewhat controversial as to whether or not it slows the progression or assists with memory or cognitive skills. My humble opinion is derived from my personal experience with both my grandmother and patient. I’m thankful for the advancement in pharmacology.