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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 6FREE years old, and small percentage of
patients, are under FREE0 years old. In Some rare cases, people in there
40's and FREE0'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 6FREE.
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 1FREE0 - 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 - 1131 - 272 - 3900
312 - 33FREE - 8700
Fax: (312) 33FREE - 1110
Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
P.O. Box 8250
Silver Spring, MD 20907-8250
1- 1131 - 438 -4380
Website: www.alzheimers.org
Administration on Aging
Washington, D.C.
1- 1131 - 424 - 3410
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