The Facts about Alzheimer’s Disease By: Mr. Frantz

What is Alzheimer’s disease? It is the most common cause of dementia in older people It is a brain disorder that makes it hard for a person to carry out normal daily activities.

What causes Alzheimer’s disease? Scientists don’t fully understand what causes AD, and there is not just one single cause for AD, but several factors that affect each person differently. Age is the most important known risk factor The number of people with AD doubles every 5 years after the age of 65. Family history also is another risk factor that can cause someone to get AD. To learn more about the causes of AD, scientists are researching beyond genetics by studying education, diet, environment, and infections to see if they play a role in causing AD.

The Stages of AD There are 3 main stages of AD Mild, or Early stage– Most people at this stage can still manage the majority of their daily activities, but they may need help with staying organized. Moderate, or Mild stage—People at this stage have trouble taking care of themselves, but they can still be involved in their daily activities and can still follow a comfortable routine. Severe, or Late stage—People at this stage usually require complete assistance with daily care.

What are the symptoms of AD? Memory problems are sometimes the only first symptom. Trouble remembering recent events, activities, or the names of familiar people and things are symptoms that begin slowly. Other symptoms are when they ask the same question over and over again, when simple math problems become hard to solve, and also other difficulties that begin to interfere with jobs or other activities.

As the disease gets worse, people with AD may… Forget something that just happened even though they can remember events from years ago Become disoriented or get lost in once familiar places Forget how to do simple tasks like brushing their teeth and hair Not be able to think clearly Have trouble talking, understanding, reading, and writing Have sudden, unpredictable mood changes Become suspicious and paranoid about other people’s intentions and behavior Become confused, anxious, or aggressive Some may become violent while some may become helpless

How is AD diagnosed? The only definite way to diagnose AD is to find out whether there are plaques and tangles in brain tissue. Doctors can diagnose AD correctly up to 90% of the time. One area of current research is trying to find a new and better way to diagnose early AD.

How is AD treated? No treatment can stop AD. The FDA approved several drugs that may help some people in the early and middle stages of AD-the drugs may help people with memory and thinking. Other kinds of medicines are used to help control behavioral symptoms of AD such as sleeplessness, agitation, wandering, anxiety, and depression—it makes people with AD more comfortable. Non-drug treatments include assuring that the person with AD has a healthy diet, exercise, social activities, regular medical care, and a safe environment.

How can someone prevent AD? Vitamins including vitamin E and B may prove to be helpful in preventing AD. A healthy, varied diet with lots of fruits & vegetables & whole grains is a good place to start to get vitamins and nutrients.

Caring for someone with AD People with AD usually need more and more care as the disease gets worse. It can be very hard and it can affect someone’s life, family life, job, finances, and physical & mental health. There is also the Alzheimer’s Association that offer educational programs and support groups for caregivers and family members.

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