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Alzheimer's is steady progressive loss of memory, intelligence, judgment, speech and more. That is caused by loss of brain cells, and changes in the cerebral cortex (the outer layer of the brain). As the accumulation of tangled fibers and or plaques form around the nerves of the cerebral cortex, the onset of Alzheimer's begins. Nerve cells, die in area of the brain that are vital for memory, and other mental abilities.
In 1906, Alzheimer’s was discovered by Dr. Alois Alzheimer. He noticed changes in the brain tissues of women, who later died of unusual mental illness, as result of the tangled fibers and plaques, in the brain. Researchers are unclear as to the cause, whether by genetic reasons, or by an onset of a previous stroke, head trauma or clogged arteries.
Also, those with low levels of Vitamin ‘B Twelve,’ are at a higher risk to develop Alzheimer's. A UCLA reach study dated January 10, 2001, have developed a technique that can identify brain lesions that cause the onset of this disease, before symptoms develop. Most Alzheimer's patients are over the age of 65 years old, and small percentage of patients, are under 50 years old. In Some rare cases, people in there 40's and 50's develop aggressive form of Alzheimer's.
The symptoms for this debilitating disease include memory loss. Patients forget things often. Trouble remembering questions and answers given. Including the inability to perform everyday routine tasks. Also, poor Judgment for example: wearing inappropriate clothing during the day or night. Misplacing things, for example, food maybe placed inside piece of clothing, instead of the refrigerator or pantry. Disorientation could last a short time, and or forgetting their home address. As Alzheimer's gets worse, unfortunately, the patient is not in control any more of bodily fluids, and results in wearing an adult diaper. And, food eventually has to be served by another person, or guardian.
Statistics has shown that Alzheimer's is diagnosed about six to eight years, before the onset of death. Four Million Americans have Alzheimer's. Over the age 80, 20 percent adults have Alzheimer's, and five percent over the age of 65.
There is no absolute recommended cure for Alzheimer's, however many studies are underway. In the early stages of this disease, some drugs, such as tacrine (Cognex), Donepezil (Aricept), Rivasstigmine(Exelon), or Galantamine (Reminyl), help prevent symptoms from becoming worse, only for a limited time. Research has shown that Vitamin 'E,' slows down the progressive disease by about seven months, but still under further review. Also, herb Ginkgo Biloba, (Comes from the oldest living tree growing on earth for over 150 - 200 million years. Originally grown in China.) may provide some relief, in the treatment of Alzheimer's symptoms or prevent dementia in older people. In the United Kingdom, Professor John Harwood, investigating team on Alzheimer's discovered that oily fish, such as herring, mackerel, and sardines, could slow the progressive disease or delay the onset. Investigation has shown that Curcumin, the yellow pigment in curry spice, has the potential in preventing Alzheimer's disease, but further studies are underway. In India, where this Curcumin is consumed, reportedly among the world's lowest Alzheimer's disease rate, because it appears Curcumin blocks and breaks up brain plaques that causes this disease.
Making preparations for patients that have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's is very important. Considerations should include, financial planning, including who will be authorized legally to pay all medical bills. In many cases, government, and community organizations can provide some assistance. As well, Medicare and Medicaid provide for some financial restitution. Also, preparing a power of attorney to a guardian, Living Will (whether or not resuscitate) and a Will. These topics, should be made in the earliest possible time, before the onset of this disease, becomes more difficult for the patient to make responsible decisions. Also, determining where the patient will reside, either at a family residence or Medical facility, to get the best possible assistance. Knowing the responsibilities, taking care of the patient will get more intense attention over time. May need a twenty-four hour nurse, prescribed medication, and a ventilator support.
For more information on Alzheimer's contact:
Alzheimer's Association
919 North Michigan Avenue
Suite 1100
Chicago, Illinois 60611-1676
1 - 800 - 272 - 3900
312 - 335 - 8700
Fax: (312) 335 - 1110
Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
P.O. Box 8250
Silver Spring, MD 20907-8250
1- 800 - 438 -4380
Website: www.alzheimers.org
Administration on Aging
Washington, D.C.
1- 800 - 424 - 3410
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