Care for Each Stage of Alzheimer's

Observed by Alois Alzheimers in 1906, Alzheimer's is a chronic degeneration of the brain that destroys an individual's ability to live a normal life. Described as the, "long good-bye," Alzheimer's disease ultimately requires long-term care, in a nursing home or by caring family members and support groups.

History

• Alzheimer's, a form of dementia, is indicated by abnormal activity between and within nerve cells. These abnormalities cause recognizable protein deposits described as plaque or tangles. According to the Alzheimer's Association, approximately " 5.3 million Americans," suffer from this disorder.

Stages

• Alzheimer's has three stages: mild, moderate and severe. According to the Mayo Clinic, in the mild stage one shows clear signs of cognitive dysfunction. In the moderate and severe stages, memory is absent combined with "deepening confusion" and physical impairment resulting in the need for assisted care. Patients at any stage may find it helpful to engage in word puzzles, knitting or reading acitivities known to stimiluate brain activity.

Treatment

• There are three stages of Alzheimer's disease: mild, moderate and severe.

  Two medications are used to treat Alzheimer's. Individuals in stages one and two may benefit from cholinesterase inhibitors which enhance certain brain chemicals associated with memory function. Namenda, prescribed for stage three, regulates "the activity of glutamate," a brain chemical necessary for normal cognitive function. According to the National Institute on Aging, "When produced in excessive amounts, glutamate may lead to brain cell death." The institute adds that Namenda "blocks the toxic effects associated with excess glutamate and regulates glutamate activation." Although an incurable disease, the drug might increase the length independence Alzheimer's patients have, a benefit to both the patient and caregiver.