How to Decide If Alzheimer’s Testing Is Right for You

In the second part of our conversation, psychologist Andrea Russell, Ph.D., of the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, shifts the focus from awareness to decision-making — helping patients think through whether emerging Alzheimer’s blood tests are right for them.

One of her key messages is simple but powerful: Know yourself. According to Russell, a person’s emotional outlook and preferences around uncertainty can be an important guide. Some individuals feel strongly that they want as much information as possible about their health, even if it’s difficult. Others would prefer not to know, especially when answers are not definitive. Both responses are valid.

For patients who are more proactive, or what Russell describes as “activated” in their health care, these tests may be worth discussing, particularly for those over 65 or experiencing memory changes. On the other hand, individuals who feel that knowing would cause significant distress may choose to wait, especially while the science continues to evolve.

The Role of Self-Advocacy

Russell also pointed to an important reality: Many primary care providers may not routinely bring up these tests. Given ongoing questions about accuracy and clinical use, some clinicians remain appropriately cautious. This means patients who are interested may need to start the conversation themselves.

She encourages patients, especially those with strong support systems and a desire to take action, to ask their doctors questions like the following:

• Is this test appropriate for me?
• What would the results mean in my situation?
• What would the next steps be if the result is positive?

Over time, Russell expects these conversations to become more routine as the science matures. But for now, patient-driven discussions may play a key role in access and decision-making.

Moving Beyond Fear

Another central theme of the conversation is the need to move beyond the “doom and gloom” often associated with Alzheimer’s disease. While acknowledging the real challenges of the disease, Russell emphasized that it is not defined solely by decline.

People still have “joy, meaning and purpose,” she explained. Many individuals living with Alzheimer’s experience moments of connection, calm and even happiness. By broadening how we think about the disease, patients and families may feel less fear and more openness when considering testing and planning ahead.

Russell advocates for a balanced, individualized approach. Alzheimer’s blood tests are not for everyone, and that’s OK. The decision should reflect a person’s values, emotional readiness and support system, alongside a clear understanding of what the test can and cannot provide.

As testing options expand, this more nuanced perspective may help patients feel empowered, not overwhelmed, when navigating their brain health.