Alzheimers disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease affecting the memory, the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. The disease is associated with progressive cognitive and behavioural impairment, most commonly with a progressive loss in short term memory. Usually only the nervous system is progressively affected, with 40% of people over the age of 85 suffering from the illness. Smoking cigarettes results in a 2-4 times increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Unfortunately, there is no current cure for Alzheimer’s disease. There is a range of support services available to enhance quality of life and ensure safety.

Symptoms

• Short term memory loss
• Inability to recognize objects
• Inability to carry out movements
• Confabulation
• Confusion
• Impaired abstraction
• Apathy/depression

Causes

• The main causes of Alzheimer’s disease is unknown, however the incidence rises with increasing age (usually >65)
• It does not appear to be genetically linked (although having the rare apolipoprotein E4 gene increases the risk of developing the disease)
• It is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the brain
• Usually associated with plaques made up of toxic β–amyloid deposits

Treatments

Unfortunately, there is no specific therapies that halt the disease or are curative. Symptomatic relief may be given in the effort to decrease the level of memory loss, however less than half of people experience any improvements. This includes anticholinesterase drugs (eg. Donepezil, rivastigmine, or galanthamine). The management of Alzheimer’s disease involves incorporating many social support services such as outpatient, day care, assisted living, skilled nursing facility. Ensuring that there is a safe and secure home environment is important, and exercise is encouraged to reduce restlessness.

Natural Therapies