Abstract

The healthcare system currently lacks a standardized approach for screening and identifying potential links between hormonal fluctuations and Alzheimer’s in younger populations. This gap in guidelines leads to a primarily reactive rather than proactive stance, as screenings like the AD8 tool are often only considered in response to advanced symptoms or at older ages (Tolea & Galvin, 2013). The progression of early Alzheimer's disease is generally considered irreversible. This is due to the neurodegenerative nature of the condition, where damage to brain cells, particularly in areas related to memory and cognition, is progressive and cannot be undone. According to the Alzheimer's Association, once Alzheimer's disease begins, it leads to gradual and irreversible cognitive decline. The exact progression varies by individual, but the damage to neurons worsens over time, leading to significant memory loss, confusion, and changes in behavior (Alzheimer's Association, 2023). According to Tolea & Galvin, (2013), this disease is often later diagnosed and expected to manifest in people ages 65 and older at a rate of one out of every fifth person age 65 and older. “People with MCI are high risk for developing dementia within 3 years,” (Tolea & Galvin, 2013). The opportunity lies in implementing earlier screening as part of routine care for at-risk individuals, aiming to detect the disease before it progresses. This research aims to identify the current beliefs and practices of healthcare providers’ (HCPs) in Mississippi regarding proactively screening for cognitive decline in younger individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) by promoting a more proactive approach. A secondary purpose of this project is to indirectly raise awareness of this association in order to promote a more proactive approach by HCPs to facilitate earlier detection of cognitive decline. Identifying these aspects may improve quality of life and potentially reduce mortality associated with the progression of cognitive decline to Alzheimer’s. For this quantitative research design, the researchers implemented a questionnaire that focused on providers' thoughts and perception of this targeted younger population that present with mild vague symptoms and related to unrecognized cognitive decline leading to a delayed diagnosis, which inhibits potential early intervention. The questionnaire includes barriers to early screening including thoughts on lack of clinical practice guidelines. The study was conducted with a QR code distributed via email and social media to primary care providers throughout Mississippi. After the data was collected, it was sent to a professional statistician using a using a SPSS27 test analysis where the results found that among 54 providers, 44.4% believe there is a correlation between the two conditions, while 3.7% reported no correlation and 25.9% were uncertain. Additionally, 31.5% of respondents indicated that they believe metabolic syndrome increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Despite these perceptions, significant barriers to early cognitive screening were identified, including time constraints, limited awareness, and insufficient training. Notably, 37% of providers do not routinely screen patients under age 65 for cognitive decline, and only 7.4% reported actively conducting early screenings for this age group. These findings highlight the need for targeted provider education, streamlined cognitive screening protocols, and improved clinical guidelines and insurance coverage for patients aged 40–64 with MetS. Addressing these gaps may support earlier detection of cognitive decline and improve long-term outcomes for at-risk populations.

Degree

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Degree Date

2025

First Advisor

Dr. Christy L. Davis

Document Type

Thesis

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