Alzheimer's 21 Question Essay

To identify if a patient is at risk of Alzheimer’s disease, doctors have devised a quick test. The 21-question test distinguishes between normal absent-mindedness and the more sinister memory lapses that may signal the early stages of dementia. The 21 questions are answered with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’. A ‘yes’ is given a score of one or two and a ‘no’ always scored zero, giving a maximum possible score of 27. Someone who scored under five is advised that there is no cause for concern. A score of five to 14 suggests mild cognitive impairment. 15 and above, suggest Alzheimer’s may already have developed in the patient.
The Alzheimer’s Questionnaire was distributed to 30 patients on different days, during their therapy session while they seated with their hot pack or ice pack. Several copies were also printed to encourage employees to participate. The data was used to measure mild-cognitive impairment- the slight memory lapses that can be a precursor of the disease. The questions focused on memory loss, following instructions, losing one’s orientation displaying poor judgment, and having difficulty-managing money, shopping, or driving. These questions are all possible mental symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. The data collection period went through March 7th to April …show more content…
They realized that they might be at risk for AD, therefore they did not seem to be completely honest during their assessment. Patients seem to be more concern about their scoring, rather than telling the complete truth about their memory assessment. Moreover, this issue would be addressed by not telling patients how each question is scaled; therefore patients would be completely honest throughout the assessment. I would also address the assessment differently by allowing patients to be anonymous; therefore they would not feel as though their personal information is in the hands of someone