Alzheimer’s Disease Essay Example

for individuals over 85 years old, reaching a rate of 47 percent.

Taking care of someone with Alzheimer's Disease can be expensive, averaging around $174,000 per person throughout the course of the disease. This cost applies when care is provided at home by a friend or family member. If outside help from a nursing home is required, the cost will increase (Robinson, 1999).

In 1906, Dr. Alois Alzheimer conducted an autopsy on a woman who had died from a rare mental illness. His research revealed abnormalities in her brain tissues including senile plaques containing degenerating nerve cells and beta amyloid protein as well as neurofibrillary tangles which are twisted protein fibers causing malfunctions in nerve cells (U.S Department of Health and Human Services, 1993). These structures are commonly found in autopsies of Alzheimer's patients.According to the National Institute of Mental Health (1994), the effects of Alzheimer's Disease on the brain are not yet fully understood, but they likely disrupt nerve cell communication and cause abnormal responses to brain signals. There is a genetic component to Alzheimer's disease, with early-onset AD believed to have a stronger hereditary link compared to later-life AD. Research is still ongoing in this area.

Genetic markers on chromosome 21 and 14 suggest that genetics play a role in early-onset AD but only affect a small subgroup of individuals. Chromosome 19 has also been linked to Alzheimer's Disease in elderly individuals. However, having a family member with AD slightly increases the risk compared to the general public, so chances of a close relative developing Alzheimer's remain low (National Institute of Mental Health, 1994).

Alzheimer's Disease progresses through stages, and symptoms vary depending on the person's stage.

The onset of the disease is gradual but becomes increasingly aggressive over time. Initially, individuals may experience short-term memory loss and forget simple daily activities like taking medication. They may also exhibit mild personality changes and withdraw from social interaction. Furthermore, memory loss can impact job performance and lead to frequent misplacement of items.As the disease progresses, individuals may experience difficulties in abstract thinking and intellectual functioning. These challenges can be accompanied by agitation, irritability, and quarrelsomeness. In later stages of the disease, symptoms such as disorientation and confusion regarding time and location may arise. Patients may also exhibit forgetfulness towards the names of close relatives or even their own names.

Additionally, manifestations such as violent behavior, wandering tendencies, difficulty engaging in conversations, erratic moods and behaviors, as well as loss of bladder control can occur. In severe cases of Alzheimer's disease, individuals may become unable to perform basic tasks like walking, talking or eating (Robinson 1999).

Diagnosing Alzheimer's is a complex process that typically involves consulting multiple specialists and undergoing various tests which often take several months to obtain results. The initial step in the diagnosis involves gathering the patient's medical history since certain medications (prescription drugs or over-the-counter) can produce symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's disease (Robinson 1999). It is necessary to conduct tests in order to rule out other medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms such as tumors, infections or dementia caused by mild strokes (Robinson 1999).A range of tests, including blood workups, urine analysis, brain MRI, CT scans, and EEGs, are necessary for a provisional diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Only an autopsy that examines senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles can confirm

a definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (Robinson, 1999). Although there are treatments available for the disease, none provide a complete cure as it remains incurable. Currently, the FDA has approved two drugs for treating Alzheimer's Disease: tacrine or Cognex and donepezil hydrochloride or Aricept. These medications increase levels of acetylcholine—a neurotransmitter involved in muscle action, learning, and memory (Baron, 1998). However, while these drugs improve neuron communication, they cannot prevent nerve cell deterioration or regenerate damaged cells. The most effective treatment for individuals with Alzheimer's involves providing good nursing care that offers both emotional and physical support. Certain medications can help manage symptoms and control behavioral issues to enhance comfort (Robinson ,1999). Caregivers should aim to reduce stress in the patient's life and maintain consistent routines in their environment. It is crucial to allow individuals with Alzheimer's Disease to independently complete tasks and only provide assistance when necessary—teasing or arguing should be avoided along with preventing excessive fatigue.Identifying triggers for unwanted behavior and limiting exposure to new people are crucial steps in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's (Norrgard, 1999). It is also essential to celebrate their abilities and actively listen to their thoughts and feelings. Caregivers should keep in mind that the behavioral symptoms displayed by Alzheimer's patients are not directed towards them or others.

Learning about Alzheimer's Disease, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment reveals it as one of society's greatest challenges today. This disease not only strips individuals of their self-confidence and dignity but also takes away control over their own lives. The once central brain becomes a source of frustration as Alzheimer's progresses. Facing the harsh reality of

gradually losing control and becoming dependent on others is an arduous journey for these individuals.

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for this devastating disease. However, ongoing research efforts provide hope for a future where Alzheimer's can be overcome.