Uncovering Alzheimer's and the Impact it can leave

Alzheimer's disease is a complex and progressive neurological disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for a significant portion of memory-related impairments in older adults. This devastating disease not only impacts the individuals diagnosed but also has a profound effect on their families and caregivers. Characterized by a gradual decline in cognitive abilities, Alzheimer's disease primarily affects memory, thinking, and behavior. When the disease starts to get worse, individuals might start having a tough time with certain things. These are language, problem-solving, and decision-making. Simple tasks that were once routine become challenging, and the ability to recognize familiar faces and places may diminish.  According to the National Institute on Aging “The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is still not fully understood, but researchers believe that a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to its development. The accumulation of abnormal protein deposits, such as beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles, in the brain is thought to play a significant role in the progression of the disease”. Knowing all this, learning the symptoms of Alzheimer's and what to do when a family member is diagnosed is important.  Raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease is crucial to promote understanding, support affected individuals and their families, and drive research efforts toward finding a cure. By fostering a compassionate and inclusive society, we can create a supportive environment for those living with Alzheimer's and work towards enhancing their overall well-being.

What are the signs of Alzheimer's Disease

The systems and signs of Alzheimer's disease can be different for every person. Mostly seven major signs show hints of Alzheimer's disease. The first is Memory loss. This is one of the most prominent early signs of Alzheimer's. This may include forgetting recently learned information, important dates or events, and relying heavily on memory aids or family members for reminders. Next, you have difficulty with problem-solving and planning. These individuals with Alzheimer's may experience challenges in problem-solving, planning, and completing familiar tasks. They may struggle with tasks that involve numbers, such as managing finances or following a recipe. Another sign could be confusion about where people are and what time it may be. People with Alzheimer's often lose track of time, dates, and seasons. They may become disoriented and have difficulty remembering where they are or how they got there. Another is language and communication problems, meaning that individuals may have trouble finding the right words to express themselves or following a conversation. They may also struggle with understanding written or spoken language. Another sign that may be showing someone has Alzheimer's disease is making poor judgments and decisions. Alzheimer's can affect an individual's judgment and decision-making abilities. They may make poor financial choices, exhibit changes in personal grooming and hygiene, or show a lack of judgment in social situations. Another major sign is when someone is having a major change in their mood and personality. Alzheimer's can cause significant changes in mood and personality. Individuals may become irritable, anxious, or depressed. They may also exhibit uncharacteristic behaviors, such as increased agitation or withdrawal from social activities. Finally, another sign that an individual may have Alzheimer's disease is when they are having withdrawals from work or hobbies. They may have difficulty keeping up with previously enjoyed activities or engaging in conversations. It's important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other factors, so a comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these signs, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

In what ages do you see Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease. However, it's important to note that Alzheimer's can also occur in individuals in their 40s or 50s, which is referred to as early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Early-onset Alzheimer's is relatively rare, accounting for less than 5% of all Alzheimer's cases. The risk of developing Alzheimer's disease increases with age, and the prevalence of the disease rises significantly in individuals over the age of 85. While age is a significant risk factor, it's important to remember that not all older adults will develop Alzheimer's, and it is not considered a normal part of the aging process.

Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, there are ways that people can treat it. There are certain medications that can be used to help these people that are battling this disease. It is important to note that treatment plans may vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. There are five most common types of treatment that professionals recommend, the first being medications. There are several medications that have been approved by regulatory authorities. What these do is they can improve cognitive symptoms. According to the National Institute on Aging “These medications can slow down the progression of Alzheimer disease.”  These medications work by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain involved in memory and cognition. Next you have cognitive Stimulation, this being to have the “individual be engaged in activities that stimulate the brain, such as puzzles, memory games, and social interactions, can help maintain cognitive function and slow down cognitive decline,” According to the National Institute on Aging. Another type of treatment would be lifestyle modifications. This being for the individual to adopt a healthier lifestyle, this has proven to have a positive impact on managing Alzheimer's symptoms. This includes regular physical exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining social connections, and managing other health conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Another treatment is supportive therapies which could be occupational therapy, speech therapy, and music therapy, these therapies can help individuals with Alzheimer's maintain their independence, improve communication skills, and manage behavioral changes. Finally Caregiver support, this just basically is to help and support the person going through this. It’s extremely important to have. Mostly a family member will be helping the individual out. 

In conclusion, Alzheimer's disease is a complex and devastating neurological disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Society must have a deep understanding of this disease and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. The more people learn and talk about this disease, the more impact and awareness we can spread. 

Works Cited

“.” . - YouTube, 2 October 2022, https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/donanemab?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=google_strategic_search&gad=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw-pyqBhDmARIsAKd9XIPpVKB1CGcWiPQI4nN4jMp63ND2WpGAJ-6L-PLXMxX2eihojJ-JXzwaAvwoEALw_wcB. Accessed 5 November 2023.

“What Are the Signs of Alzheimer's Disease? | National Institute on Aging.” National Institute on Aging, 18 October 2022, https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-are-signs-alzheimers-disease. Accessed 5 November 2023.

By: Brandon Butterfield