Abstract
This literature review reveals several trends in research regarding families and cognitive impairment. The paper begins with a discussion of the literature on stress among parents of children with cognitive disabilities and proceeds with more recent literature on the subject of parenting skills of cognitively disabled adults. The paper finds that though there is considerable consensus that having a child with disabilities is stressful, this consensus may be the result of bias more than a result of actual research findings. The paper found no research that asked the fundamental question of if the family experienced stress as a result of living with someone with cognitive impairment. The paper concludes that research will continue regarding the issues of cognitive disability and its impact on society at large.

Outline:
Impact on Family
Self-Determinism and Cognitive Disability
Discussion

From the Paper
"Another major topic in the area of cognitive disabilities is the topic the appropriateness of parenting by persons with cognitive disabilities. This topic drew considerable controversy, particularly in terms of child endangerment and the ability of the person with a cognitive disability to engage in proper parenting behaviors. Feldman, Varfhese, & Rajska (2002), examined the relationships among support, stress, and mother-child interactions in cognitively disabled adults. This study found that the more support the mother had, the more satisfactory her relationship with her child would be.
"James (2004) found that children of cognitively disabled persons were more likely to have developmental delays, behavior problems, and language delays. The issue of support was a key theme in studies regarding this topic. Support was found to have a positive correlation to parenting success in persons with cognitive disability (Kroese, Hussein, & Clifford et al, 2002; Lewellen & McConnell, 2002)."

Tags:parenting Alzheimer, mental retardation, cultural bias, self-determination

Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a principal cause of death and disability in young adults with consequences ranging from physical disabilities to long-term cognitive, behavioral and social disorders. Cognitive rehabilitation is a term used to refer to that branch of rehabilitation aimed at patients who are disabled primarily as a result of impairments in memory, judgment and other cognitive functions. This paper critically explores existing literature regarding cognitive rehabilitation for treatment of TBI patients to determine what types of cognitive rehabilitation are used, what the strengths and weaknesses of these types are and whether or not there are specific cognitive impairments that are more amenable to cognitive rehabilitation.

Paper Outline:
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Background of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Significance of the Study
Rationale of the Study
Research Questions
Definition of Terms
Limitations of the Study
Review of Literature
Overview of TBI
Cognitive Impairments: Conditions Linked to TBI
Costs of Cognitive Rehabilitation for TBI
Cognitive Rehabilitation: Strategies and Practices
Variables Influencing Cognitive Rehabilitation Outcomes
Conclusions to the Chapter
Research Design
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Inclusion Criteria
Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy Rehabilitation
Holistic/Home-Based Therapy Studies
Computer-Assisted/Virtual Reality Studies
Research Questions and Hypothesis

From the Paper
"Whitlock and Hamilton (1995) suggest, however, that even the most severely brain damaged patient can recover cognitive functioning to a remarkable degree if admitted to an acute rehabilitation program as early as possible after the initial injury. Age, severity of injury, pre-TBI educational and/or functional level, and type of treatment provided were among the most significant variables influencing outcome. Several other studies of a similar nature - i.e., Katz and Alexander (1994), Lubusko, Moore, and Stambrook (1994), and Carney, Chesnut, Maynard, Mann, Patterson, and Helfand (1999) - found further support for the effects of these variables on the outcome of cognitive rehabilitation."

Tags:intracranial, neurochemical, MRI

Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that cognitive impairments and decline are often considered commonplace characteristics of aging. The writer points out that the aged population is increasing in America, and it is important that attention and research be directed at how certain age-associated phenomena, such as cognitive decline, could be reduced. The writer examines research that have determined that dietary intake of certain foods and nutrients have a significant impact on cognitive performance. The writer concludes that high dietary intake of vegetables was determined to be associated with higher cognitive performance scores among the aged population under investigation. Further, the writer maintains that the overall health benefits offered by diets high in vegetable intake need to be factored into interventions aimed at the prevention of all age-related illnesses, including cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.

Outline:
Method
Participants
Procedure
Results
Discussion
Limitations
Future Research
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Since the process of aging is inevitable, what can individuals do to prevent cognitive decline and possible Alzheimer's disease as a result of aging? It is important to focus on prevention and primary care as the most optimal approaches to healthcare for an aging population. Preventative approaches to healthcare result in reduced costs for individuals as well as the healthcare system, as well as increased responsibility and self-reliance on behalf of aging individuals."
"One factor which has the potential to greatly affect overall health, including cognitive performance, is diet. How do the foods consumed by individuals affect cognitive performance? Since mild cognitive impairment has been demonstrated as a significant risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, is it possible to alleviate this risk through dietary intake? Several research studies have determined that dietary intake of certain foods and nutrients have a significant impact on cognitive performance."

Tags:Alzheimer's, decline, aging, brain

Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the main hypothesis of the study, "Does Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Hearing Impairment Improve by Hearing Aid Use?", can be stated as follows: while hearing aids show significant results in terms of auditory improvement, there is no proof to suggest a related improvement or increase in cognitive ability as a result of the application of a hearing aid. The writer explains that the study refers to cognitive functions such as memory, attention, executive functioning, and processing speed. The writer also explains that it should be noted at the outset that this hypothesis presupposes a connection, albeit based on prior research sources, between hearing or hearing enhancements and cognitive functioning. Thus, this is an aspect that forms part of the critique in this analysis of the paper. The writer points out that it is also suggested that the methodology used to ascertain cognitive correlation is to some extent not adequate in terms of the complexity of determining quantitatively a definite link between hearing aids and improved cognition.

From the Paper
"The methodology used in this study was comparatively simple and conventionally straight-forward. In essence a relatively small number or participants were used in this study - which is also a point of contention with regard to the results and conclusion of this research. In total there were fifty-six participants (mean age 0/72.5) who were fitted with hearing aids were compared with 46 control participants (mean age 0/74.5) with an equivalent impairment, but who were not fitted with a hearing aid. The study took cognizance of a number of variables and factors that could influence the results of the experiment. These included neurocognitive tests after 12 months. However, it is also possible that these tests in terms of personality and individual psychological components were not sufficient. This aspect is possibly one of the reasons why the study did not return the expected correlation between hearing aids and cognitive improvement."

Tags:memory, attention, cognition, sensory, organ

Abstract
This paper defines cognition and explains the effects of aging on the brain in relation to memory, attention, metacognition, effects on language and the effects of aging on the executive function and finally cognitive function in very old age.

Introduction
Causes
Overview of Findings in Relation to Cognition and Aging
Cognitive Aging and Working Memory
Long-Term Memory
Environmental Support Indications
Health-Related Cognitive Function Impairment
Changes in Hormonal Levels Associated with Cognitive Decline
Medical Treatments Available
Dietary Changes
Lifestyle Changes
Nutritional Aids in Combating Cognitive Dysfunction
Summary
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Manifestations of the age-associated cognitive disorder may be in various forms including senility, loss of memory, Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Dementia is inclusive of diseases that involve nerve cell deterioration with loss in two complex behavior areas including language, memory, visual abilities, spatial abilities, and judgment."

Tags:mental, process, knowing, thinking, learning, judging, dysfunction, disturbances

Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that cell phone use in vehicles is a growing concern around the globe. The writer points out that many individuals and authorities believe that the use of cellular phones while driving contributes to the number of motor vehicle accidents on the road systems. The writer discusses that cognitive psychologists have studied this matter thoroughly in order to determine whether or not cellular phones pose a risk to driver performance. The majority of these studies have confirmed the suspicions and provided empirical evidence showing that the use of a cell phone while driving severely decreases driver attention and slows down reaction times to visual stimuli. This paper discusses two studies in particular that examine the perception of visual stimuli by drivers in relation to cellular phone use. Furthermore, research is proposed that would build upon the two articles discussed by combining the topics and determining exactly what kinds of hands-free devices used with cell phones, if any, are the most effective in creating a safe driving environment.

Outline:
Abstract
References

From the Paper
"In today's technology driven world nearly everyone takes measures to increase their accessibility to the outside world. These measures include e-mail, fax, the Internet, and cellular phones, just to name a few. However, as with all new advancements in technology and society, the increased accessibility to the outer world comes with a number of negative side effects or drawbacks. One area in which these drawbacks are highly pronounced is driving. Driving used to be a relatively simple task, with few cars on the road, few distractions, and a lack of any form of technology within the vehicle beyond a steering wheel, gear shift, mirrors, gas pedal and break - all items required for driving the vehicle. Today, however, cars come equipped with high powered stereo systems, compasses, electronic-visual navigation systems, televisions, drink holders, fax machines, outlets for computers, and cellular phones. "

Tags:handheld, concentration, focus, distraction, attention

Abstract
This paper explains that the article "Effects On Brain Development Leading To Cognitive Impairment: A Worldwide Epidemic" is both a technical overview of some possible causes of mental and other cognitive impairments in children in developing countries and a cry for help. The author points out that Dr. Olness states that iron deficiency suffered in infancy has been attributed to behavior problems in children such as anxiety, depression, social problem and other attention issues. The author of this paper believes that these cognitive brain issues are preventable by giving pregnant mothers and infants iron supplements; however, the resources needed to prevent famine situations are too limited at best in second-world nations and nonexistent in third-world nations.

Table of Contents
Introduction
Plot
My Thoughts & Do I Agree/Disagree
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Unfortunately, according to the author, cognitive limitations in children appear to be on the rise. Because the majority of these cases are in underdeveloped poor nations, medical help or professional expertise is limited or totally nonexistent. The fact that many of the associated causes of these cognitive concerns stem from malnutrition makes this even a bigger concern as famine continues to spread as the rich get richer and the poor die."

Tags:developing, behavior, underdeveloped, supplement, malnutrition

Abstract
The paper explains that Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a fairly new term to the medical community. The paper relates that most healthcare professionals use it to describe "people who have some problems with their memory but do not actually have dementia." The paper discusses how studies indicate MCI can predict Alzheimer's. The paper explains that as research progresses, a new understanding of Alzheimer's disease and its predictors could hopefully allow treatment and longevity for victims of this disease. The paper relates that for those continuing to suffer from the disease, new designs in assisted living and Alzheimer's facilities can facilitate treatment, a better quality of life and increased involvement in eventually discovering a cure for Alzheimer's disease.

From the Paper
"This condition is not a disease, and not everyone who has it develops Alzheimer's disease. However, many studies indicate MCI can predict Alzheimer's and many individuals diagnosed with MCI do go on to develop Alzheimer's within a few years. The Alzheimer's Society of Great Britain notes, "In studies carried out in memory clinics, 10-15 per cent of people with MCI went on to develop dementia in each year that the research results were followed up" (Editors). In other words, about 50 percent of MCI sufferers developed Alzheimer's within three to five years of their diagnosis (Sherman 1)."

Tags:memory, loss, dementia, condition, brain

Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain dysfunction that involves memory loss and other cognitive impairments. It is the most common form of dementia and there is no cure (Carrico, 2007). Alzheimer's disease also causes progressive inability to perform daily tasks and to function. This paper will examine how Alzheimer's is represented in the film Away from her (2006) in terms of the trajectory of chronic illness and its impact on the aging family. Transitions are important because they are a source of the impacts on the family. Alzheimer's disease is one form of dementia so that the person's awareness of self changes but the family is changed as well.

From the Paper
Away from her - Chronic illness Introduction Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain dysfunction that involves memory loss and other cognitive impairments. It is the most common form of dementia and there is no cure (Carrico, 2007). Alzheimer's disease also causes progressive inability to perform daily tasks and to function. This paper will examine how Alzheimer's is represented in the film Away from her (2006) in terms of the trajectory of chronic illness and its impact on the aging family. Transitions are important because they are a source of the impacts on the family. Alzheimer's disease is one form of dementia so

Tags:alzheimer's, impact, family

Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain dysfunction that involves memory loss and other cognitive impairments. It is the most common form of dementia and there is no cure (Carrico, 2007). Alzheimer's disease also causes progressive inability to perform daily tasks and to function. This paper will examine how Alzheimer's is represented in the film Away from her (2006) in terms of the trajectory of chronic illness and its impact on both the patient and the caregiver. Transitions will also be explored because they cause a severe impact on patient and caregiver. Alzheimer's disease is one form of dementia and the person has a certain awareness of self, while the caregiver must also adapt their sense of self.

From the Paper
Away from her - Chronic illness Introduction Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain dysfunction that involves memory loss and other cognitive impairments. It is the most common form of dementia and there is no cure (Carrico, 2007). Alzheimer's disease also causes progressive inability to perform daily tasks and to function. This paper will examine how Alzheimer's is represented in the film Away from her (2006) in terms of the trajectory of chronic illness and its impact on both the patient and the caregiver. Transitions will also be explored because they cause a severe impact on patient and caregiver. Alzheimer's

Tags:chronic, dementia, transitions