Should I get genetic counseling before testing for the gene?

[leuqos]

I am just starting on this journey and wonder if it is advisable to get some genetic counseling before taking the gene test? What has worked for you? Thanks for sharing.

[slacker]

Welcome leuqos!

Here are some thoughts about pros and cons of genetic testing. Genetic counseling is usually performed after testing, but it's possible that you could get it before hand. Insurance coverage is always tricky. The vast majority of us have not had any genetic counseling, either before or after testing. Many are tested by choice through 23andMe, without any understanding of what they are getting into.

Look into our Primer as well. It's helpful not just for ApoE4 carriers, but anyone with a family history of Alzheimer's.

[Cas]

Hi Leuqos,

Welcome to the site - as slacker has advised the primer is a great starting point and this site as a whole is a fantastic source of support with people at various stages of awareness from those just diagnosed to people who have known for a number of years.

Take care
Catherine

[slacker]

And leuqos, when you're ready, tell us more about yourself and how you got to us in the "Our Stories" Forum.

[woleile]

I have no experience with counseling, but my first thought is the counselor would be required to give you the party line--there's no cure, there's no treatment that works, yadda yadda. The fact that you're here makes me think maybe you're looking for something other than the party line.

[Searcher]

A good counselor will be aware of this useful overview:

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)31363-6/fulltext