NU3316- Determinants of Health Dementia (Alzhermier's)

Determinants of Health Dementia (Alzhermier's)

Introduction

The purpose of this report is to expand the boundaries of our knowledge by exploring some relevant facts and figures related to the analysis of Alzheimer disease. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia that usually occurs at an age of over 65 years, but can also occur at an earlier time. Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative disease that causes a progressive decline in cognitive function and memory. Gradually, the destruction of nerve cells occurs in brain regions associated with memory and language. Over time, the affected person has more difficulty memorizing events, to recognize objects and faces, to remember the meaning of words and to exercise his or her judgment (Parke, 1994, pp. 344-678).

In this paper, the author will examine the epidemiology of Alzheimer disease in patient's story. With reference to the patient's disease, the author will identify the epidemiological data, demographic data, recognize the main health risks and report on health patterns in different countries.

Main causes of Alzheimer disease

The causes of Alzheimer's disease are not known. In the vast majority of cases, the disease is due to a combination of risk factors. Aging is the main factor. The risk factors for cardiovascular disease (cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, etc.) also appear to contribute to its development. It is also possible that infections or exposure to toxic chemicals play a role in some cases, but no formal proof has been obtained (Terry, 1994, pp. 56-59).

Genetic factors play an important role in the onset of the disease. Thus, certain genes may increase the risk of suffering, although they are not the direct cause of the disease. In fact, researchers found that 60% of people with Alzheimer's disease are carriers of the gene. Another gene, SORL1, also seems to be often involved. However, many individuals are carriers of these genes and will never have the disease and, conversely, some people without these genes may develop the disease. There are also hereditary forms of the disease, but account for less than 5% of cases. Only 800 families have been identified worldwide. Children with a parent with Alzheimer's disease may have to have the disease themselves. The symptoms of familial occur early, often before age 40. However, although several members of the same family are affected by this disease, it does not necessarily mean it is the hereditary form (Weiner, 2009, pp.78-90).

Data and links to patient

Our patient Jack was diagnosed with pulmonary disease at the age of 56. The wife was the first person to noticed that he was becoming forgetful, confused, and sometimes when at home would stood outside their house greeting people that are passing bye, spent most of his time outside the house picking stones and a times. He was becoming aggressive and refused to have a wash or a bath. She was worried but booked an appointment with the GP (General practitioner) for jack to be seen and to get help. Jack was diagnosed with dementia ...