Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive form of dementia that seriously affects a person’s capacity to perform daily activities. This degenerative disease of the brain effectively begins in the cerebral cortex. It is marked by the slow and progressive decline in a person’s mental capacities.

Researchers do not yet fully recognize what is the actual cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Several risk factors are identified and they affect each person differently. Degenerating brain tissue is one of the probable causes of Alzheimer’s disease. Other risk factors are the tangling of nerve fibers in the brain, the build up of certain protein deposits in the brain, and the lack of neurochemical factors in the nerve.

The aging problem is among the most important known factors for Alzheimer’s. AD affects both sexes, generally those who are over the age of 60. However, the disease has been reported to occur in persons as early as age 40. The illness is more common in male than in female. Researches show that around nine out of ten thousand people are affected with AD. The number of patients doubles every 5 years.

Studies show that genetics play a role in many AD cases. There is very little chance of inheriting the disease. Early-onset familial Alzheimer’s, a rare form that occurs between the ages of 40 and 60, is inherited. But there is no clear inheritance pattern seen in the late-onset, the more common form that develops later in life.

Mutated genes that mingle with each other and with non-genetic factors cause AD, and the only recognized gene is one form of a protein called apolipoprotein E (ApoE). Everyone has this protein that helps carry cholesterol in the blood. Approximately 15 percent of people have ApoE that increases the risk of AD. Many other genes cause AD, but are not identified.

Many researchers are now studying diet and environment to learn what role they play in the development of AD.

Tags: Aging, Cancer

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimers is a difficult disease for any family to deal with. When I was married over 15 years ago, my father-in-law was a joke telling, happy go lucky card playing person. We didn’t understand at first what started happening to him. At first, we thought it was just part of getting older. He would forget what he was doing, or where he put the keys or some other odd thing. We didn’t realize at the time, that all of us were about to start down a long and difficult road.

Alzheimer’s disease affects the mind in such a way, that the person (at least in our situation) cannot function in normal situations. It is the most common cause of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease affects an estimated 4.5 million Americans.

A person with Alzheimer’s Disease might forget the simplest words, misplace things and have a loss of mental functioning including language, recognition of family, reading and writing.

In our situation, Dad started living more and more in the past, and less and less in the present. One time, when Dad’s wife was sick and in the hospital, he couldn’t remember where she was. “Where is she?”, Dad would ask. “She is at the hospital”, we would reply. Five minutes later, we would repeat the same discussion. We would do this over and over.

In our case, as Alzheimers progressed, Dad would stop recognizing us. One time, my wife went to visit and Dad screamed and yelled at the strange woman who had come over. Dad even threw a punch when the strange man known as his son came into the home.

Alzheimers is a disease that never seems to stop. As Dad’s condition worsened, he would start wandering off – not knowing where he was. We had to get a door alarm that would sound when the door was opened to keep him from leaving. However, even that didn’t work all the time. One time, in winter, Dad wandered off in his pajamas. We had to call the police to help us find him.

Now Dad has moved to a secure assisted living facility that is designed to care for patients with Alzheimers. He seems happy, but it is hard for us, to see his life so drained of what it was and what it could still be if he didn’t have Alzheimer’s disease. I think Alzheimers is a disease that affects the whole family. If we visit, he doesn’t know who we are. He doesn’t even remember that we were there. He still remembers that he was married, but he doesn’t remember to whom he was married.

What causes Alzheimers? The doctors don’t know for sure. Doctor’s know that each patient reacts differently to the disease and the disease progresses differently for each person. There is still no treatment for the disease. For our family, we take comfort knowing that Dad is happy and not in pain, even if he doesn’t know us anymore.

Tags: Cancer, Medical

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease. It is considered the primary reason why a person experiences dementia. Once a person is diagnosed to have Alzheimer’s disease, it is expected that he will experience progressive deterioration in intellect that will result in decline in his daily activity. The most significant of all the symptoms is loss in memory. Memory impairment starts with minor forgetfulness that progresses steadily, usually leading to what is called a stage of “second childhood.” The memories retained usually are the older memories. As the disorder progresses, problems in the intellect continually spreads in range, affecting language, coordination of movements, recognition and decision-making abilities.

There are no actual tests that can be administered to a person who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease pre-mortem. The best way to find out if someone is suffering from the disorder is for the people closest to him to identify radical changes in behavior that may point to the possibility of Alzheimer’s.

Pathology

Doctors have discovered that there are changes in the brain found in a patient diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The neuropathology or nerve cells do not function well and synapses are lost in important brain regions. Neurotransmitters like serotonin, acetylcholine, norepinephrine and somatostatin are present in below-normal levels, while glutamate levels are usually above normal.

Treatments

There is no known cure for a person who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. The most that can be administered are inhibitors that can slow down the actual effects of the disease.

Vaccines

Vaccines are being developed to try to reverse the cause of Alzheimer’s disease in a patient. Animals injected with certain vaccines showed great progress, but once these were administered to human subjects, inflammation of the brain occurred. The vaccine tests were eventually stopped, but human test subjects’ conditions showed significant improvement.

Tags: Disease, Cancer

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Although there is no known cure for Alzheimers, there are a number of treatments which can be used to ensure the symptoms are kept under control and the sufferer’s overall standard of life for the duration of the condition is as comfortable as it can possibly be. The treatments combine Alzheimers medicine and non-medicated treatments, with a view to maintaining the patient’s condition and ensuring the patient is as comfortable and happy as possible. To date, there are no medications which can alter the course or progress of the condition, although there is a great deal of research into different types of Alzheimers medicines which may have these highly desirable effects. There are however, numerous medications available to help deal with the psychiatric element of the condition, and the symptoms which arise from the same.

There are some Alzheimers medicines which have been proven to temporarily delay the process of mental deterioration. There is also the option of drugs available for other conditions which can be used to treat behavioural and emotional problems in patients with the condition. Although they cannot stop the progression of the illness, they can go towards improving the patients general state of mind, and have a real impact on the debilitating symptoms synonymous with this condition.

The main type of Alzheimers medicine is known as Cholinesterase inhibitors, which are shown to consistently outperform prescribed placebos in improving patient’s conditions. These help improve the networks and pathways in the brain, which are damaged and ineffective as a result of the condition. Having said that, as with any medication there are potential side effects, which with this type of Alzheimers medicine include vomiting and diarrhea.

The best idea for anyone suffering the symptoms of Alzheimers is to consult their medical professional immediately. That way, the patient will be afforded expert diagnosis and treatment, including the full range of Alzheimers medicine which can go someway to calming the symptoms and improving the patient’s overall well-being.

The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can be a tragic and frustrating time for anyone and their families, although it doesn’t have to be seen as a life sentence. There are a diverse range of accessible Alzheimers medicines to improve patient’s conditions in the short term, so keeping in close contact with your physician is key. He will know best how to maintain treatment to keep the symptoms at bay, at will have access to alternative medications which may be more suitable. Additionally, there are support groups to offer help and support during this time, and to allow patients to understand they are not alone, and there are people out their in similar circumstances. Alzheimers can be depressing if you let it get you down, but if you look after yourself or your loved one and keep in touch with your physician, you can continue to lead your life as normal for as long a period as possible before the symptoms eventually take their toll. Try to remain mentally and physically active and involved, and above all, remember not to lose hope

Tags: Aging, Disease

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimers disease still remains on the whole a mysterious condition, with very little known about its causes or the precise nature of its effects. Because the causes are unknown, identifying likely candidates for developing the disease is an impossible feat. Likewise there is no cure for those who do end up with the disease, and it shares symptoms with many other conditions, making Alzheimers diagnosis particularly difficult.

It is thought that there are a number of factors which may help in forming an Alzheimers diagnosis, such as family history and any previous serious head injuries, which may indicate a likelihood of the condition. If you are experiencing any of the key symptoms, primarily dementia, it is a good idea to consult your doctor immediately. That way, you can be sure to rule out other conditions and begin a course of treatment for your diagnosed condition. For diagnostic purposes it is also highly beneficial to be handled by a specialist with first hand experience and hopefully even research interests in the condition and other similar conditions to aid in the Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

Likely indicators which would lead to an Alzheimers diagnosis are dementia as establish by means of examination, a progressing decline in movement and movement capabilities, undisturbed consciousness and the absence of brain diseases which could cause similar symptoms. These will all be fairly easy to asses and draw conclusion for an expert in the field using his professional judgement. Additionally, if there is a behavioural change, and a family history of the condition, this may also go to suggest its presence within a patient, leading the physician to his Alzheimers diagnosis.

Through simply examination, the physician can gain a better understanding of the patient’s condition, leading him to realise the nature of his illness and perhaps even help draw conclusion based on his professional opinion. Although the diagnosis can never be a 100% certainty, more experienced physicians will be able to diagnose with more accuracy, and eventually be able to recognize recurring signs in patients suffering from the condition.

Although traumatic by its very nature, the diagnosis of Alzheimers doesn’t have be a demoralizing prospect. There are numerous ways in which the progression of the illness can be delayed, allowing for extended independence and better quality of life for the patients. As long as an effective diagnosis is made early in its course, the illness can be deferred to allow for more comfort and less severe symptoms for patients for as long as possible. If you recognize any of the symptoms in yourself, visit your physician immediately for testing and examination. Do not feel reluctant to visit the physician, as this could genuinely improve your quality of life significantly over the coming years and months. There is also a fair amount of support out there for you during this difficult time, so go out and seek the help you need. Embrace your condition, and live your life to its fullest, remaining active in the community and pursue your passions, to keep you well for as long as possible.

Tags: Disease, Medical

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

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Alzheimers Disease is a brain disorder, which progresses to alter patient’s abilities to learn and carry out daily mental activities. At the moment, there is no known cure for the condition which destroys the minds of its patients as it takes its course over the remainder of their lives. Fortunately, there are a number of Alzheimers help groups which aim to support the sufferers and their carers, and help improve the quality of life for the patients of this dreadful condition.

Patients suffering from alzheimer’s usually die within eight years of their first symptoms, although the disease can take its course over a span of twenty years. Additionally, patients find memory and other mental skills impossible, as well as daily routine tasks such as getting dressed and need constant care and attention. Alzheimers help groups go someway to assuring patients and carers that they are not alone, and offer some hope on what is one of the bleakest horizons.

Although there is no known definitive cause of the condition, there are many theories and tests currently ongoing to help unlock the key to this degenerative disease. One school of thought holds that the key may be genetic, with those of age and a family history considered to be most at risk of developing the condition. It is also thought that by adopting a healthier aging process, this may help preserve the brain cells which when destroyed lead to this condition. It is thought that the damage to the brain begins years before the onset of symptoms, and by the time the symptoms become apparent, the nerve cells in the brain responsible for handling information have already begun to die.

The vast majority of patients suffering from the condition receive their Alzheimers help and care in their own home by a family member or friend. This condition can often by particularly trying for the carer if they are forced to watch someone they care about degenerate at a rapid speed to the point where they no longer recognise their own family and friends. This tragic disease can leave sufferers and carers frustrated and demoralised, and leave them feeling completely lost as to how to continue living. One ray of light is that of alzheimers help groups which provide support for both carers and sufferers. Not only that, its a social occasion for both patients and carers to look forwards to, where they can meet with others in the same situation and realise that they are not alone in the symptoms they are having to contend with.

Although at the moment much of the condition is a mystery, there is some degree of hope for the future, with continued testing and experimentation on the subject. Scientists hope to discover more about the cause of the condition and its effects on the brain, which will hopefully allow further development of existing treatment and perhaps even an eventual cure. In years to come, there will be continued investment in research and testing to perhaps ensure that someday, this dreadful disease can be resigned to the past and can be treated and cured effectively.

Tags: Medical, Health

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative affliction that causes a decrease and your brain’s ability to process information. Memory is the first part of your brain that is directly affected, so the first observable symptoms are usually mild forms of amnesia. Alzheimer’s is actually a form of dementia, although you rarely here this were associated with it. Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe any progressive damage to the areas of the brain that control memory or any other cognitive function. Alzheimer’s certainly fits the bill under that definition.

The earliest stages of Alzheimer’s is marked by gradual memory loss that tends to heighten as time passes. It begins as little things like having a hard time remembering what Jay or even month it is. They may find themselves losing items more frequently than normal, like misplacing keys. Not being able to recall current events and sadly in some cases not even being able to recognize family and friends are symptoms of the disease. Surprisingly, long-term memory doesn’t seem to be affected. In many cases it is not uncommon that the afflicted person will recognize old friends and family, but may not have any clear memory of recent interactions with them.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, the afflicted individual will show signs of the erratic behavior. They often become paranoid, quick to anger, overreact to minor things, suffer from hallucinations, and can even become violent. It is very easy to get confused and frightened in this frame of mind.

These behaviors are seen even in individuals that were shy, timid, or passive people prior to developing the disease. Sometimes it seems as if the individual does a complete 180 in personality. Someone in the middle stages of Alzheimer’s will usually begin to lose motor control and will need help dressing and performing everyday personal hygiene functions. The ability to read and write often diminish his as does speaking in a loud and clear voice. When the disease progresses to this point in even older memories can become affected and family and friends may suddenly become strangers. It’s very sad to watch someone you care about go through this.

In the later and final stages of the disease, individuals will usually have a complete and total breakdown of the mental faculties. They will be unable to communicate, walk, participate in personal care activities, or even eat on their own. As a result, sufferers in these late stages usually are incontinent and begin to lose a lot of weight. Alzheimer’s can and does kill people because of the deterioration of the brain.

At this time there are no known cures for Alzheimer’s, but there are some medications and have shown promise in at least slowing the disease’s progression, and medical science is optimistic about research into the field.

Our increased understanding of biology and the human genetic code and work with stem cell research has many scientists feeling optimistic for the creation of preventative and perhaps even curative drugs. Already, there are results from a number of recent studies that suggest that a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine can go a long one a preventing the disease from ever occurring.

While pets don’t actually develop Alzheimer’s disease, both dogs and cats develop a condition called cognitive disorder. While the condition appears new, it is not and has been recognized by veterinarians for many years. There are a number of clinical signs in pets with cognitive disorder. These signs are often accepted by owners as normal signs of aging, when in fact they are signs of a (usually) treatable condition. Owners must be taught that any of these signs warrants a full evaluation. Education must begin before the first geriatric visit. Regular geriatric examination, ideally every 6-12 months, will facilitate communication and allow for early diagnosis of cognitive disorder and other conditions often seen in geriatric dogs.

Common signs in dogs and cats with cognitive disorder include wandering aimlessly, vocalizing for no reason, getting stuck in a corner, increased daytime sleeping, seeking less attention, loss of housetraining, and seeking less attention. Because these signs can mimic other conditions (cancer, hypothyroidism), these pets should receive a full workup prior to the diagnosis of cognitive disorder.

The drug AniprylR is approved for treating cognitive disorder in dogs. It must be given daily for the life of the dog once the diagnosis is made. Side effects are rare in dogs and included restlessness, disorientation, vomiting, anorexia, weakness, anemia, stiffness, and polydipsia. The major concern among owners is the cost: a one month supply for a 30 pound dog costs about $125.

There are other more natural alternatives, including herbal preparations (gingko, lycopodium, salvia,) thyroid supplement (when hypothyroidism is the cause), nutritional supplementation using whole food preparations of vitamins such as inositol and lecithin, and a specific product called Cholodin which combines choline and several other nutrients (choline, phosphatidylcholine, methionine, inositol, and various B vitamins and antioxidants.) Nutritional supplementation is used to increase acetylcholine levels in the body (acetylcholine is a widely distributed nerve transmitter in the body.) Aging people and pets begin to lose choline nerve receptors. Since oral choline administration increases plasma choline levels, and since brain levels of acetylcholine increase as plasma choline levels increase, using choline supplementation has the ability to improve neurological disorders that result from decreased acetylcholine.

Natural therapies have proven extremely effective in most pets in my practice, without the expense or side effects of drug therapy. Therapy is given for 2 months to assess efficacy (as is true with any nutritional therapy,) although results may occur more quickly. For more information on the protocol I recommend, please email me at naturalvet@juno.com and ask for the cognitive disorder protocol.

Shawn Messonnier, DVM

Author, 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog, The Allergy Solution for Dogs, and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. Dr. Shawn is the medical consultant for Pet Togethers, a pet supplement company.

http://www.pettogethers.net/healthypet

http://www.petcarenaturally.com

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that causes the patient to suffer from progressive intellectual deterioration. Currently, there is still no known cure, so several institutions organized Alzheimer’s associations to primarily spearhead researches on the disorder.

Alzheimer’s associations are usually non-profit organizations that focus on matters related to Alzheimer’s disease; the primary concern is to develop a treatment for this disorder. Doctors have developed medications that are capable of slowing down the degenerative process, but there are no cures that can completely eliminate the disease. Alzheimer’s associations are also responsible for spreading information campaigns to educate the public on the disorder. Professional caregivers are trained by the associations to provide proper care to patients.

Researches

Through the funding of Alzheimer’s associations, researches have yielded discoveries on nutrition that can prevent a person from acquiring Alzheimer’s disease. It was discovered that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs could delay or lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. It was also discovered that increasing the consumption of a combination of vitamins C and E significantly lowers the risk of the disease. Evidence shows that inclusion of fish in the weekly diet is beneficial because of the Omega 3 fatty acid contents.

Researches have also yielded the development of inhibitors that can slow down the progression of the disease. There are also ongoing studies on vaccines for Alzheimer’s disease. Intake of medical nicotine is also believed to have delaying effects on intellectual deterioration.

Information Campaigns

Alzheimer’s associations give away pamphlets, brochures, videos and other forms of media to help educate the public of this disorder. It is believed that if family and friends or those closest to the patient know what signs to look for, the deterioration process could be slowed down.

Caregivers

Professional caregivers are trained by Alzheimer’s associations and they can be employed by family members to take care of the patient. Doctors believe that it is very important that the patient be treated in a familiar setting to delay the effects of the disease and eventually eliminate the need for more costly professional treatments.

Alzheimers provides detailed information on Alzheimers, Alzheimers Symptoms, Alzheimers Care, Alzheimers Associations and more. Alzheimers is affiliated with Adult Disposable Diapers.

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimer’s disease is a condition wherein the patient suffers from a neurodegenerative disease. It is actually impossible to determine whether a person does have Alzheimer’s disease or not while he is still alive. Though there are tests conducted to observe the mental functions and physical reactions of the patient, there is still no concrete way to tell whether the disease has set in. And there is no known cure for this condition. Once a person has it, he is stuck with it for the rest of his life.

The primary responsibility to care for Alzheimer’s falls on the hands of family members. In fact, doctors usually seek the opinion of family members to confirm whether or not the patient has experienced sudden changes in behavior and physical actions.

Suggestions

Though there is no cure for the condition, it is believed that there are ways to prevent or at least slow down the deterioration process.

There are researches that suggest that Alzheimer’s disease may be hereditary, meaning if someone in the family has acquired this condition, other members are at risk. Though doctors have never really been able to establish an actual connection, it never hurts to be cautious and observant.

Past studies showed that people who play chess on a regular basis are at a significantly lower risk of falling victim to the condition as compared to the general population. It is also believed that a person who exercises regularly need not worry much about acquiring the disease. However, it is believed that among all the exercises, dancing is the most effective. This is due to the constant coordination between the brain and the body.

When a person shows early signs of Alzheimer’s disease, it is advisable to increase the intake of vitamins C and E. The vitamins have to be taken in combination because taking vitamins C or E separately, even in large doses, show no effects in slowing down the disease.

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Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that results in progressive memory deterioration. It destroys the ability of the person to learn, talk, coordinate his movements, communicate, make judgments, and eventually carry out his everyday tasks. It may lead to behavioral changes resulting in violent reactions, anxiety attacks, distrusting behavior, agitation, delusions or even frequent hallucinations.

Memory

A person who suffers from some problems in memory and concentration would usually display occasional lapses in memory or forget some experiences. He may also show some lapses in attention and concentration.

A person who might suffer from Alzheimer’s disease habitually misplaces items that are important to him. He might display difficulty and confusion in performing daily simple tasks. Because of the disease, performing simple mathematical equations can be quite a challenge. Performing other mental tasks is also very difficult for the patient.

Mood

A person may experience temporary sadness or feel anxious about certain situations he is facing. A change in careers or moving to a new town is a reasonable situation to feel anxious. People are usually afraid of the unknown.

An Alzheimer’s patient displays unpredictable mood changes not typical of the person prior to his disease. He becomes isolated. He may display violent reactions, feel depressed, succumb to bursts of anger, or experience confusion with things happening in life. A patient’s normal reaction is to deny any of these symptoms.

Language and Speech

A person who has the disorder experiences trouble in completing a sentence. Patients usually communicate in words or short phrases, and they do not seem to know the right words to say. The things they express tend to be nonsensical.

Movements and Coordination

A normal person may either have slow reactions to certain stimuli or be generally cautious in movement. An Alzheimer’s patient will display trouble in moving. He is unable to coordinate his movements that even walking or balancing can be challenging.

Alzheimers provides detailed information on Alzheimers, Alzheimers Symptoms, Alzheimers Care, Alzheimers Associations and more. Alzheimers is affiliated with Adult Disposable Diapers.

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

With the American population aging rapidly, diseases that affect the health of the elderly are becoming increasingly important. The prevalence of these conditions is increasing and is costing both insurers and taxpayers billions of dollars each year. One of the most widely-known such conditions is Alzheimers disease, which is a condition that affects the neurological health of the afflicted patient. Several studies have been done recently to determine whether there is a valid link between drinking coffee and reduction in the risk of Alzheimers disease.

In mid-2002, a hospital clinic in Portagul investigated to see if there was a link between drinking coffee and the reduction of the risk of developing Alzheimers disease. In particular, the researchers sought to determine if the caffeine in coffee could protect against the degeneration of the brain that is associated with Alzheimers disease in the period before diagnosis. They studied fifty-four patients with Alzheimers disease.

All of the patients met the Alzheimers disease and Related Disorders criteria. The researchers found that the caffeine in coffee was associated with a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimers disease, even when other issues were taken into account.

A university clinic located in Berlin, Germany, looked at the relationship between consumption of coffee and the delay in the onset of Alzheimers disease or reduction in the rate of progression of the disease. While they were unable to definitively state that the caffeine in coffee was beneficial to patients with Alzheimers disease, they did see the possibility of the link between coffee and overall neurological health.

Finally, a University in Ottawa Canada analyzed the risk factors for Alzheimers disease as part of the Canadian Study of Health and Aging. They studied more than six thousand patients aged 65 years or older between 1991 and 1996. The researchers found that consumption of coffee was associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimers disease. They concluded that the evidence from this study warranted further research and review.

While these studies have not been able to definitively state that drinking coffee reduces the risk of Alzheimers disease, there is enough evidence to warrant further research. In particular, the studies have shown that caffeine intake as when drinking coffee is at the very least related to neurological function such as the function that is lost with the onset of Alzheimers disease.

© Copyright Randy Wilson, All Rights Reserved.

You can find more articles on coffee such as Starbucks Coffee History and Coffee Enemas.

Tags: Alzheimers, Alzheimes+Disease, Disease, Alzheimers+Dementia, Treatment

Alzheimer’s Disease is somewhat different from many of the other neurological diseases. Alzheimer’s disease is the only pathological source that can short-circuit, and wreak havoc not only on the victim, but also affect the care giver in ways I’ve not seen in any other disease.

In fact, one could say the way Alzheimer’s Disease develops and affects the victim is unique. This unique road leads to stresses and strains on the care giver that are also unique. Assistance and resources for the care giver is just as important as getting medical attention for the patient.

Who Is The Care Giver?

Most often the care giver is the spouse, or family of the victim. In this case, the care giver not only cares for, but loves the victim very much. The care giver can be someone who sits or stays with the patient for certain durations of time throughout the day or week. Many times, I’ve seen great numbers of family members provide coordinated efforts when caring for the patient.

When observing care givers and families caring for a patient with Alzheimer’s, I’ve seen certain characteristics that are unique to this disease and very disturbing.

I’ve seen cases where, although the patient was suffering from Alzheimer’s, it seemed that the family suffered somewhat to a greater degree because of the fact that the patient could no longer remember things and wasn’t aware of most of the strains and stresses developing daily.

The Care Giver Suffers Along With The Patient With Alzheimer’s Disease

For instance, in one specific case a woman was losing many of her memories and deteriorating at a steady rate. Although our therapists would work with her and try to build functional skills physically, and mentally, she seemed to not be aware of her decline and was therefore, in a way, spared the suffering and depression that came along with her decline. However, the patient’s family suffered greatly because they were watching their mother, and spouse, decline daily.

In this case, the family confided in me that they feel as though their mother, and spouse, is slowly becoming a stranger. Although the family, and loved ones, realized that this is a pathological process and the patient could not help what was happening, it was difficult for hurt emotions to not factor in the situation and add to the stresses.

Since the patient commonly doesn’t know what is happening during the Alzheimer’s Disease process, to the outsider or analyzer, it would seem that the family suffers significantly more than the patient only because the patient isn’t as acutely aware. Because of this decrease in awareness, the patient is spared the mental anguish that accompanies the steady rate of decline.

The Closest Distant Strangers

Alzheimer’s disease causes many innocent victims and families to become distant strangers because all of the precious memories that are slowly taken away from the victim. While these memories are not taken away from the family members, greater strain results from a feeling of alienation. Many family members feel that it’s as though the precious memories were taken away from everyone involved because the memories can no longer be exchanged and enjoyed between the victim and family members.

In another case, the family felt a little guilty because of the things they had to resort to on behalf of their loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. In this case, the family had to slowly take away things from the patient daily for safety purposes. First they took away everyday items like razors for shaving, toothpaste and tooth-brush, then mouthwash, until the spare roles of toilet paper had to be taken away. This was because the patient was flushing entire rolls down the toilet without realizing what was going on. This patient’s family was particularly disturbed because the Alzheimer’s Disease victim was someone who always took care of them, looked after them, and someone who was well respected in the community. This family loved the victim very much. They felt guilty because the patient didn’t deserve to be treated in this way. However, they were forced to take these measures, because they had no choice. So it is with most other Alzheimer’s Disease patients and family members.

Alzheimer’s disease indeed affects everyone within the family and even friends of the victim. The emotional strain can cause changes in lifestyles and relationships that if not addressed and treated properly, can cause damage to the loved ones.

There Are Resources For Families of Alzheimer’s Disease Victims

There are Alzheimer’s Disease support groups, support functions, counselors, and people to help families of victims who suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease. Physicians are beginning to analyze in the literature that when Alzheimer’s Disease develops, counseling and support for the family members are indicated, just as antibiotics are indicated for a bacterial infection.

If you suffer or are suffering from the damages that Alzheimer’s Disease not only has on the victim but on the family, there are people and places that can help you. These people can offer practical tips on how to cope and deal with your specific strains and stresses. Getting the proper help that you need when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease is just as important as our loved ones getting proper medical attention. In fact, it’s just as important. Because, if you don’t take care of yourself physically and emotionally, you will have greater difficulty caring for the one you love.

William Riopelle, MS PT, is a senior physical therapist with over twelve years experience working with patients in the area of Home Health. His popular website provides more information, in downloadable audio format, for family and care providers on Alzheimer’s Disease: => http://www.audiomedicalscience.com

Tags: alzheimers+disease, disease, medical, illness, alzheimers