Alzheimer's Disease Information
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The
occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is not a normal development
in the aging process. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized
by a gradual loss of memory, decline in the ability to perform
routine tasks, disorientation, difficulty in learning, loss
of language skills, impaired judgment and ability to plan,
and personality changes. Over time, these changes become so
severe that they interfere with an individual’s daily functioning,
resulting eventually in death. While the disease can last from
3 to 20 years after the onset of symptoms, the average duration
is 8 years.
Alzheimer’s disease affects as many as 4 million Americans. Most people diagnosed
with AD are older than 65. However, it is possible for the disease to occur
in people in their 40’s and 50’s. Recent research has shown links between some
genes and AD, but in about 90% of cases, there is no clear genetic link.
Alzheimer’s disease manifests itself slowly
and subtly, with the first symptoms often appearing to be mild
forgetfulness. From time to time, we all forget
where we have put our keys, but people with early stage AD may notice that
they tend to forget things more often. They may have trouble remembering recent
events, names of familiar people or things. While these symptoms are bothersome,
they are usually not serious enough to cause alarm. As the disease advances,
the symptoms become serious enough to cause people with AD or their family
members to recognize that things are not right and that help is needed. As
the disease progresses further, people with AD eventually forget how to do
simple tasks like brushing their teeth, or combing their hair. They begin to
have problems speaking, understanding, reading or writing. Later on, people
with AD may become anxious or aggressive and may wander away from home. Eventually,
patients may need total care.
Early and careful evaluation is important, because many conditions, including
some that are treatable or reversible, may cause dementia-like symptoms. Examples
of such treatable medical conditions are depression, nutritional deficiencies,
adverse drug interactions, and metabolic changes.
There is no single test to identify AD. A comprehensive exam should be conducted
by your physician including a complete health history and physical exam, neurological
and mental status assessments, as well as other lab tests (like chest x-rays
and blood tests). These will help rule out any other diseases which may look
like Alzheimer’s but are not. Physicians are now able to accurately diagnose
80 - 90% of people who show symptoms of AD. A definitive diagnosis is possible,
however, only through the examination of brain tissue at autopsy.
While there is no known cure for AD, scientists have found a few medications
which may help control some of the symptoms. People with AD must work closely
with their doctor to determine which drugs and activities are best for them
because reaction to medications varies for each person. As researchers continue
to learn more about the disease, new possibilities arise. Information about
cutting-edge treatments and new scientific discoveries is available from physicians
and the sources listed below.
Research has also created promising new approaches
for working with persons who have Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Experience has taught families and
caregivers new behavioral approaches that encourage greater independence and
reduce disturbing behavior. Through the work of the state grantees in the
Alzheimer’s Disease Demonstration Grant program funded by the Administration
on Aging (AoA), new dementia-specific approaches to early identification, treatment,
and community-based care have been developed. These projects have been especially
successful in working with low-income, ethnic minority and rural families.
Additional Information & Resources
For more information about Alzheimer’s Disease, services
and resources contact:
National Alzheimer’s Association
24-hour Toll-Free Nationwide Hotline: 1-800-272-3900
Web Site: http://www.alz.org
National Institute on Aging
Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center
Phone: 1-800-438-4380
Web Site: http://www.alzheimers.org
AoA Information
The Administration on Aging is the official Federal agency dedicated to policy
development, planning and the delivery of supportive home and community-based
services to older persons and their caregivers through the national aging network
of state and local agencies on aging, tribal organizations, service providers
and volunteers.
For more information about the Administration on Aging, please contact:
Administration on Aging
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Washington, DC 20201
Phone: (202) 619-0724
Fax: (202) 401-7620
E-mail
Website: http://www.aoa.gov
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