Alzheimers disease - Assignment Example

 Alzheimer’s disease is “a disease characterized by a progressive loss of mental functioning, caused by a degeneration of brain cells.” (Inset& Roth, 2008, p.353) It is unclear what causes the disease and there is no known cure. While it commonly occurs within the elderly population approximately 10% of cases seem to be genetically inherited. (Insel & Roth) It may not be necessary to undergo genetic testing for Alzheimer’s disease. Genetic testing is often done to determine the likelihood of inheriting and passing on inherited diseases. Everyone usually carries two copies of certain genes: one from each parent. Genetic testing identifies changes in these genes to determine risk. (“Genetic testing”n.d.) For example genetic testing is commonly done for individuals who are predisposed to different forms of cancer. If people are determined to have a risk for getting cancer they can make certain changes in their diets and go for regular cancer screenings. In the case of Alzheimer’s disease there is little evidence of a genetic component being associated with it. Genetic testing may be done on individuals who have family members with early onset Alzheimer’s (occurring before age 60). Individuals already diagnosed with the disease can be tested in order to determine if they are at risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. If they have one of those gene mutations, their offspring is 50% more likely to have the same mutation. (Reed) If individuals have the strongest risk gene APOE-4 they are at increased risk for getting the disease. (“Tests for Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia” n.d.) There is another gene that is associated with the form of Alzheimer’s disease that people are likely to get as they grow older. The risk of being diagnosed with the disease is greater in those people who have two copies of the gene: one from each parent – than those with one copy of the gene. Genetic tests do not provide enough information to determine with certainty if someone who is genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease will get it. The test indicates a higher risk factor, but it does not necessarily mean that the individual will get Alzheimer’s disease. Since the disease is incurable there is no way for individuals to take preventative measures. The most accurate way for physicians to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease is to examine brain tissue during a biopsy. Physicians determine a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease by reviewing a patient’s medical history, neurological and psychological tests, physical exams as well as a brain scan. A test measuring levels of protein in spinal fluids has often been found to be an accurate test to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. People with moderate Alzheimer’s disease may benefit from medication that can help to improve memory. Some of these medications include Aracept, Cognex and Reminyl. These medicines help maintain cognitive functioning. “FDA-approved drugs temporarily slow worsening of symptoms for about 6 to 12 months, on average, for about half of the individuals who take them.” (“Alzheimer’s Myths” n.d.) One common misconception about Alzheimer’s disease is that it only strikes the elderly. While Alzheimer’s disease is most common in people ages 65 and over, younger people can also get it. In the United States 200,000 people under age 65 have the disease. (“Alzheimer’s Myths”n.d.). Many people also believe that Alzheimer’s disease is not terminal and a normal part of aging. While many older people experience some memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease is more serious. “It's a disease that causes brain cells to malfunction and ultimately die.” (“Alzheimer’s Myths”, n.d.)Individuals with the disease may not remember the names of family members or they may wander away because they are disoriented. Another misconception about Alzheimer’s disease is that Aspartame can cause memory loss resulting in Alzheimer’s disease. According to the FDA, there has been no scientific evidence indicating this. It has been deemed safe.”The agency says its conclusions are based on more than 100 laboratory and clinical studies.” (“Alzheimer’s Myths”) Another myth about the disease indicated that flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease. However recent scientific research has proven this myth to be false. (“Alzheimer’s Myths”n.d.) Regardless of the stage of Alzheimer’s disease your loved one is in it is important that caregivers emphasize their strengths and interests. They should be encouraged to do what they are capable of. For example if a parent with Alzheimer’s likes to garden a loved one may encourage him/her to help out when gardening. The people diagnosed with the disease should be encouraged to live as independently as possible. At the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease caregivers need to do their research on the condition obtaining information about treatment options, causes, and symptoms of the disease and how to care for someone with the disease. Caregivers should involve their parents who have Alzheimer’s in decisions regarding their well-being and safety. During the middle stages of Alzheimer’s disease changes in communication, behavior and a decline in independence will occur. Communication can be improved by “making simple changes such as “speaking slowly and distinctly in a gentle tone.” (“Middle Stage Care giving” n.d.)Caregivers should let the doctor know about any abrupt changes in communication. They may also want to involve their loved one in various activities whenever possible. When speaking to their loved ones caregivers should try to “respond to the emotion, instead of the specific question; the person may simply need reassurance.” (“Middle Stage Care giving”n.d.). A person with late-stage Alzheimer's usually has difficulty eating and swallowing ,needs help walking and eventually can no longer walk, is more prone to infections and cannot communicate verbally. Caregivers need to help their loved ones maintain a certain quality of life. During the late stages, the caregiver’s role focuses on preserving quality of life and dignity.”Although a person in the late stage of Alzheimer's typically loses the ability to talk and express needs, research tells us that some core of the person's self may remain.” (“Late End Stage Caregiving” n.d.) Caregivers can care by engaging in various activities with their loved ones. They may do things such as playing the patient’s favorite music, reading portions of a favorite book to them, sitting outside together and other meaningful activities. Foods and feeding may need to be adjusted. Caregivers should allow plenty of time for their loved ones to finish a meal. They should also encourage self-feeding if possible, but assist in feeding as needed. Fluids may need to be encouraged. A doctor may suggest supplements if the patient is losing too much weight. If caregivers can no longer provide care for their loved ones at home they may need to select an assisted living facility such as a nursing home or a hospice. (“Late-End Stage Caregiving”) References Insel, P. & Roth, W. (2008). Core Concepts in Health. New York, N.Y.: MacGraw-Hill Inc. Reed, Wenda (2009). Weighing the Benefits of Genetic Testing. Retrieved July 16, 2012, from Seattle Woman Web Site: http://www.seattlewomanmagazine.com/articles/april09-4.htm "Genetic Testing". (n.d) retrieved July 16, 2012, from Wikipedia The Free Encyclopedia Web Site: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetic_testing "Alzheimer's Myths". (n.d) retrieved July 14, 2012, from Alzheimer's Association Web Site: http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_myths_about_alzheimers.asp "Middle Stage Caregiving". (n.d) retrieved July 16, 2012, from Alzheimer's Association Web Site: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-mid-moderate-stage-caregiving.asp "Late Stage Caregiving". (n.d) retrieved July 16, 2012, from Alzheimer's Association Web Site: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-late-end-stage-caregiving.asp "Early Stage Caregiving". (n.d.) retrieved July 15, 2012, from Alzheimer's Association Web Site: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-early-mild-stage-caregiving.asp "Tests for Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia". (n.d.) retrieved July 15, 2012, from Alzheimer's Association Web Site: http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_steps_to_diagnosis.asp Read More