Abstract This paper provides an intensive exploration of Alzheimer's disease. The writer approaches it from the field of psychology and discusses the signs, symptoms, causes, risks, medications and treatment for the disease from a psychological perspective. The paper examines how Alzheimer's disease is being addressed and discusses the signs and symptoms that can indicate its onset. The paper analyzes the mental health issues that come with a diagnosis of the disease and treatments that dovetail with the current drugs being used. The paper concludes that, while Alzheimer's disease is still significantly stressful, there are great strides being made to combat its progression and effects.
Outline:
Introduction
What Is Alzheimer's?
History Of Alzheimer's Disease
History Of Alzheimer's Disease
Causes
Symptoms
Treatment
Conclusion
References
From the Paper " Mood stabilizers have been found to be useful. Some of the drugs used to treat disease include "tacrine (Cognex), donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), or galantamine (Razadyne, previously known as Reminyl) may help prevent some symptoms from becoming worse for a limited time. Another drug, memantine (Namenda), has been approved to treat moderate to severe AD, although it also is limited in its effects. Also, some medicines may help control behavioral symptoms of AD such as sleeplessness, agitation, wandering, anxiety, and depression. Treating these symptoms often makes patients more comfortable and makes their care easier for caregivers(Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet
http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/adfact.htm).""
Abstract This is an epidemiological research paper on the "Case Control Study of Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease". It discusses the background of this disease, study design, survey instrument, risk factor involved, statistical analysis and potential biased information about this disease. This paper briefly reviews biological evidence suggesting that alcohol use may be associated with this disease. It also focuses on the evidence from epidemiological studies that link people's consumption of alcohol to whether they develop Alzheimer Disease, considers the influence of tobacco use on the relationship between alcohol use and Alzheimer's Disease, and examines the epidemiological evidence of the connection between alcohol consumption and types of cognitive impairment other than Alzheimer's disease.
Abstract This paper presents an examination of the impact that music has on Alzheimer's disease. The writer explores the reduction of Alzheimer's symptoms that have been shown with the use of music therapy and explores future use of the therapy. The author concludes that music therapy has proven itself to be a mainstay in Alzheimer's patients comprehensive treatment plans.
From the Paper "In recent years medical science has made advances that have provided a longer lifespan than ever before, however, with that lifespan increase comes a higher incidence of Alzheimer's disease. While Alzheimer's disease can strike at any age it is typically seen in the elderly and the symptoms can be devastating. People watch their parents lose their memories, forget who they are and become a danger to themselves with their forgetful actions. "
Abstract The topic of this study is Alzheimer's disease, especially issues related to the treatment of this particular disease. Alzheimer's disease is not only a chronic, debilitating and progressive disorder, but it is also one that is expected to escalate on account of the aging of the population. When one adds the fact that there currently is no cure for the disease, and that total care is required for people who are in the final stages, then one is left with perhaps one of the most significant health issues in our society. Also, the fact that care giving is such an important aspect of treatment, one is faced with the effects that are experienced by caregivers. This final point makes the topic of profound interest to the author on account of the author's own involvement in care giving.
Abstract This paper paper applies the Calista Roy nursing practice model to the care of elderly Alzheimer's patients. The paper begins by discussing the five major concepts of nursing, according to the model. Next the paper evaluates the impact of both internal and external environments on patient care. Finally, the paper discusses how the burden of care for Alzheimer's patients most often falls on family members and asks whether the Calista Roy model might alleviate this burden.
Tags: Calista Roy, Adaptation Nursing Model Alzheimer's Disease
Abstract This paper looks at the effects of exercise on Alzheimer's patients with dementia. It looks at three experiments which show some improvements in physical abilities and reduced depression, which is common in elderly people who exercise, with or without Alzheimer's.
From the Paper "Baseline data was recorded and the subjects were started on an exercise program assisted by their caregivers, which assessed their pattern of walking speed functional reach and standing balance. Exercise training for the subjects and their caregivers was given in the patients' homes..."
Abstract The paper relates that approximately 4 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. The paper explains that this is a disease that affects a person's memory and often makes it impossible to do everyday activities such as eating or dressing. The paper discusses how today scientists know more about this disease, but they do not have a cure for the illness. The paper explains the importance of knowing the definition of Alzheimer's disease with its many symptoms, as well as studying the best treatments for the disease.
Abstract This paper highlights recent findings of an experimental drug, AF267B, which halts both the progression of Alzheimer's disease by treating both senile plaque and neurofibral tangles and also reversing the damage that was caused. This paper further presents statistics on Alzheimer's disease along with information specific to the pharmaceutical treatment options currently available.
Abstract This paper examines research worldwide on the cultural and ethnic influences on the recognition, treatment, and care of Alzheimer's disease patients. The paper begins by reviewing the basic nature of the disease. Next the paper discusses how diagnosis, treatment and care are approached by various cultures. The paper then focuses on reviewing several peer-reviewed journal articles, which make up the bulk of the references.
From the Paper "In Alzheimer's disease, the mind dies first. Names, dates, places, the interior scrapbook of an entire life fade into mists of nonrecognition..."
Abstract This paper relates that, although there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, treatments are available. The author explains the way cognitive function can be preserved as long as possible in these patients. The paper discusses the options available for long-term patient care when the patient has progressed too far to be cared for at home by the family.
From the Paper "Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia among older people and initially affects the areas of the brain, which control thought memory and language. Alzheimer's disease usually begins after age and the risk increases with increasing age."
Abstract This paper examines cognitive theories and the cognitive approach to treatment of patients with Alzheimer's Disease. The paper focuses on the psychological aspects of treatment.
From the Paper "The paper begins with a brief review of the nature of Alzheimer's Disease. It is then noted that, while historically it has been thought that there was little to be done in order to improve the functioning of people with this disorder, cognitive theories and cognitive interventions have changed this view. The paper then discuses how cognitive theories have helped to produce greater insight and understanding into the..."
Abstract This paper is a thorough evaluation of a qualitative research endeavor with respect to quality of care for the Alzheimer's patient and family. Particular attention was given to design and substantive aspects of qualitative research methods when reporting data. Recommendations were made with respect to how to improve the study along with presenting the limitations and errors the authors made.
From the Paper "Fairly commenting on an investigator's research endeavor is a task that must be taken seriously. Although it is quite easy to have an opinion of another's research, it is something quite different to be able to evaluate the research activity in terms of topic specificity and soundness, intent or purpose, data analysis, and informational importance. When embarking upon a critical analysis of another's work the reviewer must, at all times, adhere to the basic principle of prudent evaluation; namely, evaluating the structure of the research upon which scientific conclusion are drawn."
Abstract This paper is a literature review of an article on advanced practice nursing in the care and management of Alzheimer's disease. It cites statistics and focused briefly on the pathology of the disorder, diagnostics and is primarily interested in the needs based management of the patient, caregivers and family members, with the author stressing quality of daily life.
From the Paper "With the gradual lengthening of the human lifespan, geriatric medicine is faced with new problems: Alzheimer's disease, loneliness and depression, elder abuse and failing senses. For the registered nurse, the problems are compounded as the role of the nurse is to provide care and comfort. Alzheimer's disease presents a difficult set of complex issues which make it difficult for the RN in practice. Traditionally the Advanced Practice RN was there to help educate the family, and bring some comfort to the patient, comfort on an ever changing concept to the patient of what that comfort entails. This paper presents a literature review on management techniques that are patient oriented and seen from a "needs that are unmet" basis of disruption. Following the review, a patient assessment is presented."
Abstract As more and more people live longer, many suffer from senility and Alzheimer's disease. This paper discusses the stages of the disease and how medical science has advanced in its ability to diagnose Alzheimer's.
The paper also examines the future for this disease.
Introduction
The Definition of Alzheimer's Disease
The Genetics of Alzheimer's Disease
Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
Advances in Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease
Predicting Alzheimer's Disease
Outlook for the Future
Footnotes
Bibliography
From the Paper "Other researchers are focusing on the 'oxidative stress' and 'programmed cell death' parts of the puzzle. It is becoming clear that oxidative stress occurs in AD, but it is not yet clear whether oxidation actually causes the neuro-degeneration, or is simply another side effect of AD. Some scientists believe that oxidative stress is a relatively early event in the disease process. They argue that the aging brain is less able to defend itself against oxidative stress, and that this helps to explain why AD is a disease that primarily strikes older people. Researchers are working now to understand whether beta-amyloid initiates the oxidative damage in AD. Vitamin E and some of the other drugs that show promise against AD may have anti-oxidant properties."
Abstract This paper looks at legal recommendations for laws relating to care options for senior citizens with dementia and Alzheimer's disease from the perspective of a representative of a congressional district, which has a large senior population. The paper presents the background, statistics and costs relating to both of these conditions. The paper also reviews three care options and recommends a law that restricts the number of family members formally assigned to care for an elderly relative with Alzheimer's or dementia.
Table of Contents:
Problem Statement
Background
Dementia
Alzheimer's Disease
Landscape
Pertinent Statistical Data
Cost of Alzheimer's Disease
Options
Subsidize Specialized Diagnostic Testing for Alzheimer's Disease
Allow Limited Opportunities for Employment
Restrict the Number Of Family Members Formally Assigned to Care for an Elderly Relative with Alzheimer's or Dementia.
Recommendation
From the Paper "Similar to the tenets of the Ryan White Act, the congressional district could allow certain individuals below the retirement age who are diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's disease closely-monitored employment opportunities. These should target specific areas of the Alzheimer's patient which have been least affected by the disease. This option will not only ease the financial burden associated with Alzheimer's but will also delay the individual's confinement to an elderly institution as he or she is still contributing significantly to society."
