"WHAT IS ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE?"
Alzheimer's Disease is an illness of the brain. It causes the brain to lose nerve cells, leading to problems with memory, thinking, feeling, and everyday living.
As many as 4 million people in this country may have Alzheimer's Disease. It sometimes affects people between the ages of 65 and 69, or even younger, but is more likely to affect people over the age of 80.
The exact cause of Alzheimer's Disease is not yet known. Scientists believe that the brain chemical call acetylcholine(ah-see-til-ko-leen) helps memory work. They also suspect that not having enough of this chemical plays a role in the disease.
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's Disease, it's symptoms can be treated. Medicines, education, support groups, and community outreach programs are bringing new hope for people living with the disease, their families, and their caregiver.
FACT: A true and exact diagnose of Alzheimer's Disease can only be done after death when an autopsy can be performed.
~Some Common Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease~
Forgetting how to do everyday things at home and at work
Problems naming common objects such as a watch or a pencil
Getting lost easily, even in familiar places
Trouble solving everyday problems
Losing things a lot, such as keys
Changes in mood and personality
Unusual behavior
Loss of interest or not wanting to do anything
Is It Alzheimer's Disease?
There is no simple physical or mental test to find out if a person has Alzheimer's Disease. Healthcare providers combine many methods to diagnose the disease, beginning with a medical history and a physical exam of the person thought to have the disease.
A complete exam may include tests of memory, attention, language, judgment, and problem solving. They may ask either the individual, a family member, or a close friend about this person's ability to do daily activities such as:
Eating
Bathing
Walking
Dressing
Shopping
Cooking
Using the phone