Alzheimer’s Disease: A Worldwide Epidemic
Charlotte Waybourn
Human Disease/Pathophysiology MDCA-1302
8 April 2017
Alzheimer’s Disease: A Worldwide Epidemic
Alzheimer’s is a sinister disease that can devastate an entire family and wreak havoc on the minds of the poor souls that must bear its burden. It steals their precious memories and eventually makes them a stranger to those who knew them. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, studies show that more women develop the disease than men, and the strain on the economy will amount to one trillion dollars by the year 2020.
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia affecting people aged 60 and older. First discovered in 1906, researchers have worked for over 100 years searching for …show more content…
Using puzzles to stimulate the brain, a diet high in fish and fresh vegetables, and getting plenty of exercise could help to stave off the disease for a while. The screening for Alzheimer’s requires a detailed medical evaluation and several diagnostic tests. Originally, it was thought that a definitive diagnosis could not be made without an autopsy after death, but tests such as PET scans, and MRIs prove to be useful tools in the aid of detection. “New tests that have been developed to detect the presence of Alzheimer’s have proven to be an important first step to a clear diagnosis. Tests like Biomarker Tests, Brain Imaging (neuroimaging) and Cognitive Assessments.” (The Mayo Clinic Staff, 2015). Undeniably considered to be the most important aid in prevention is consulting with a doctor as soon as the first signs of Alzheimer’s appear. An early diagnosis is vital to retain brain health while it is still …show more content…
Reports show that most people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are living at home, with home health aides and family members as their primary care givers. That is why it is so important for people to seek help from local support groups and access any resources available in their communities. Programs like “Respite Care” can be an incredibly valuable source for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. What is known about Alzheimer’s proves that it is, and will continue to be an epidemic of major proportions in this country and all over the world. The financial burden it places on families and the economy is insurmountable. And while research has made tremendous attempts in the hopes of finding a cure, there is so much more that must be done until there is an end to the
Charlotte Waybourn
Human Disease/Pathophysiology MDCA-1302
8 April 2017
Alzheimer’s Disease: A Worldwide Epidemic
Alzheimer’s is a sinister disease that can devastate an entire family and wreak havoc on the minds of the poor souls that must bear its burden. It steals their precious memories and eventually makes them a stranger to those who knew them. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, studies show that more women develop the disease than men, and the strain on the economy will amount to one trillion dollars by the year 2020.
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia affecting people aged 60 and older. First discovered in 1906, researchers have worked for over 100 years searching for …show more content…
Using puzzles to stimulate the brain, a diet high in fish and fresh vegetables, and getting plenty of exercise could help to stave off the disease for a while. The screening for Alzheimer’s requires a detailed medical evaluation and several diagnostic tests. Originally, it was thought that a definitive diagnosis could not be made without an autopsy after death, but tests such as PET scans, and MRIs prove to be useful tools in the aid of detection. “New tests that have been developed to detect the presence of Alzheimer’s have proven to be an important first step to a clear diagnosis. Tests like Biomarker Tests, Brain Imaging (neuroimaging) and Cognitive Assessments.” (The Mayo Clinic Staff, 2015). Undeniably considered to be the most important aid in prevention is consulting with a doctor as soon as the first signs of Alzheimer’s appear. An early diagnosis is vital to retain brain health while it is still …show more content…
Reports show that most people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are living at home, with home health aides and family members as their primary care givers. That is why it is so important for people to seek help from local support groups and access any resources available in their communities. Programs like “Respite Care” can be an incredibly valuable source for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. What is known about Alzheimer’s proves that it is, and will continue to be an epidemic of major proportions in this country and all over the world. The financial burden it places on families and the economy is insurmountable. And while research has made tremendous attempts in the hopes of finding a cure, there is so much more that must be done until there is an end to the