Health
Alzheimer’s Affect on the Health of the Elderly
Alzheimer’s is the fourth leading cause of death in elderly. It is an irreversible disease that slowly destroys normal, healthy functioning brain cells. Generally Alzheimer’s affects people over the age of 65 but symptoms start as early as 60. It is the most common form of dementia among elderly and can be hard to diagnose.
The causes of Alzheimer’s are not fully known, but it is certain that nerve cells and other parts of the brain are being damaged and destroyed. Plaques and tangled fibers also form during the course of Alzheimer’s. All of the damage causes lapses between the brain and the body, as well as causes the brain to shrink.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s include problems with disorientation that progressively gets worse, problems with judgment, memory, coordination, language and mathematical skills, mood swings and personality changes, wandering off, and the inability to take care of oneself is also common.
Alzheimer’s and its symptoms only continue to get worse after one is diagnosed and affects the health and well being of millions of elderly adults. A person can live with Alzheimer’s from as little to 3 years to as many as 10 years, dependent upon when that person is diagnosed. Drugs are used to treat the disease and help the person remain in good health but there is no cure.
Keeping a book handy full of numbers and important information , labeling drawers and cupboards, having people call and remind you of things, and keeping a detailed calendar are just a few ways to cope with this disease.