Alzheimers
disease was discovered by German medical doctor Alois Alzheimer
in 1906. It is a neurological disorder characterized by
progressive memory loss, which is caused by the gradual
decay of the affected brain tissue. The two abnormal structures
in the brain that typify Alzheimer disease are neurofibrillary
tangles (altered proteins inside the cells) and amyloid
plaques (clumps of proteins outside brain cells).
Alzheimers
disease significantly affects cognitive thinking abilities
and those with the disease become progressively incapacitated.
Alzheimers can cause a number of problems and concerns for
both individuals with the disease as well as their family
members and friends. Emotional, psychological and financial
issues can cause great discomfort for all involved.
In the
early stages of Alzheimers dementia occurs with barely noticeable
memory loss. Over time, the memory deficits become progressively
worse until they eventually incapacitate the individual.
Other hallmark symptoms of Alzheimers disease include confusion,
emotional instability, inability to articulate words and
hallucinations. Emotional problems such judgment errors,
agitation, outbursts and feelings of isolation and withdrawal
are also common symptoms in the early stages of Alzheimers.
Without
treatment or attention, death often occurs from either malnutrition
or pneumonia. From the initial symptoms, progression can
last up to 25 years, although typically the duration ranges
from eight to 10 years.
The
Seven Stages of Alzheimers
•
Stage 1: No decline in function is observed.
• Stage 2: Personal awareness of some functional decline.
• Stage 3: Early Alzheimer disease. Noticeable deficits
in handling demanding life situations.
• Stage 4: Mild Alzheimer disease. Requires assistance
with complex common tasks such as handling finances, shopping
for food, planning travel, etc.
• Stage 5: Moderate Alzheimer disease. Persons require
assistance in making personal everyday decisions such as
choosing proper attire or ordering from a menu.
• Stage 6: Moderately severe Alzheimer disease. Requires
assistance with most daily living tasks such as dressing,
bathing, and toileting. Urinary and fecal incontinence may
be present.
• Stage 7: Severe Alzheimer disease. Speech ability
declines to about a half-dozen words. Progressive loss of
abilities to walk, sit up, smile, and hold head up.
