Living with Alzheimer's

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder named for German physician Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in 1906. Scientists have learned a great deal about Alzheimer's disease in the century since Dr. Alzheimer first drew attention to it. As many as 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease (Waldemar, 26). Alzheimer's destroys brain cells, causing memory loss and problems with thinking and behavior severe enough to affect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Alzheimer's gets worse over time, and it is fatal. Today it is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. Learn more: Warning Signs and Stages of Alzheimer's Disease.

Discussion

Alzheimer's disease robs millions of people each year of their memories, their personalities, and the ability to complete daily activities. For the longest time, it was believed that nothing could be done to prevent this awful disease; that it was simply something that people had to look forward to when they reached their golden years (Tiraboschi, 14). However, new research indicates that there is a number of ways to prevent Alzheimer's disease.

The hallmark sign of Alzheimer's disease is the loss of memory. Generally, those 65 years of age or older, begin to concern themselves with this disease at the first episodes of forgetfulness. Although forgetfulness is a sign of Alzheimer's disease, it is important to note that there are other signals that may herald the onset of this malady (Tiraboschi, 14). Therefore, being knowledgeable about Alzheimer's, through exhibited signs, and is paramount for our loved one's health as well as our own.

Hearing the news that a family member has received an Alzheimer's diagnosis can be an emotionally devastating moment in anyone's life. However, before the Alzheimer's diagnosis can be given to the patient and their family, the patient must undergo a variety of laboratory tests, such as medical assessments and laboratory measurements (Davanipour, 149). There is no single test existing that will categorically give the Alzheimers diagnosis.

With this proactive stance, diagnosticians have been able to devise a set of Alzheimers disease testing tools that can detect symptoms of Alzheimers disease in its earlier stages. As of yet, there is no single diagnostic test that is able to determine if a person has Alzheimers disease, but the battery of testing that is available makes it possible for physicians to diagnose it with about 90 percent accuracy(Brookmeyer, 186). Alzheimers disease testing can take anywhere from one day to several weeks to ensure accuracy and proper diagnosis.

An Alzheimers test is important to ensure that the person isn't just going through the usual memory loss associated with age; however, sometimes an Alzheimers test isn't necessary. Alzheimers disease doesn't just affect a person's memory; it can make people see things that aren't there, and even send them into screaming fits.

If you think a loved one is starting to become senile or experience other symptoms of dementia, you may want that person to undergo Alzheimers testing. Unfortunately, there is currently no definitive test for Alzheimers disease that a person can ...