Guest Author - Karen Huber
Alzheimer disease is a form of dementia (loss of cognitive ability) that was noticed by Alois Alzheimer in 1906. It is recognized by three stages: early, middle, and severe, and is currently without a cure. It affects over five million Americans and over 26 million people worldwide. There are currently several medicines that help with symptoms and delay progression.
Alzheimer disease usually becomes evident in people over 65, but younger-onset Alzheimer’s can occur in younger people. These people can begin early stage Alzheimer’s in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Not all older people get dementia; severe memory loss is not a normal aging process. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. It is progressive and interferes with the electrical signals in the brain so a person gradually loses all cognitive abilities and physical functioning.
Researchers have identified some risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s. The first is age; people over 65 are more likely to develop the disease. Second is heredity; people with family members who develop Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop it themselves. Head injuries and heart disease appear to influence the development of Alzheimer’s. Heart disease can lessen blood flow to the brain. Keeping active both mentally and physically in later life can reduce the risk of developing brain dysfunction. Early detection can make a big difference in quality of life for a person with Alzheimer’s dementia.
Symptoms vary with individuals but common behaviors may be confusion, aggression, hallucinations, restlessness, wandering, and insomnia. These behaviors may be noticed at home and may need further study by a neurologist, general practitioner, or a psychiatrist, who will complete a professional examination and referrals to another specialist if needed. Doctors will develop a treatment plan for dealing with behaviors and physical symptoms and prescribe medications according to symptoms. Medications can delay the progression of symptoms. With advanced Alzheimer’s, a physician may recommend additional professional care in the home or a professional facility.
The brains of people with developing Alzheimer’s progressively shrink and have less active brain matter. Changes in behaviors may be gradual at first and hardly noticeable. Eventually, Alzheimer’s patients become less able to take care of themselves; they may forget to eat, bathe, or take medications, so it is important to plan for their care. Find reputable doctors and care facilities if needed and get help if taking care of someone becomes overwhelming. Sometimes it is difficult to understand Alzheimer behaviors so developing strategies to deal with them is crucial. Early detection can make the care process easier for the caregiver and also give him or her a better quality of life and peace of mind.
