Live Well Senior's Health A NEWSLETTER WITH IMPORTANT HEALTH INFORMATION FOR SENIORS Alzheimer Awareness Month November 2013 Webster's Dictionary defines Alzheimer's disease as "a progressive, irreversible disease characterized by degeneration of the brain cells and commonly leading to severe dementia". The disease slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually even the ability to do simple everyday tasks. In most people Alzheimer symptoms don't appear till after the age of 60 but it can also occur in people in their 30's, 40's and 50's. The disease was first identified and named in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer who noticed changes in the brain tissue of a women who had died of an unusual mental illness. Her symptoms included memory problems, loss of language, and unpredictable behavior. Changes in memory can be a normal part of aging. As people get older changes happen in all parts of the body, including the brain. It may take longer to remember a name or where you put your car keys. These are usual signs of mild forgetfulness. What's the Difference? Sign's of Alzheimer's Poor judgment and decision making Losing track of the date or season Difficulty having a conversation Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them Typical age related changes Missing a monthly payment Forgetting what day it is but remembering later Sometimes forgetting what word to use Losing things from time to time People with memory loss or other warning signs of Alzheimer's may find it difficult to recognize they have a problem and may resist following up on their symptoms. Signs of dementia may be more noticeable to family and friends. It is important to find a physician whom the person feels comfortable with. Experts report that a capable doctor can diagnose Alzheimer's with more than 90% accuracy. Researchers estimate that as many as 5.1 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. Unless the disease can be effectively treated or prevented the number of people will increase with the aging population, the number will double every 5 year interval beyond age 65. Early diagnosis is helpful. Beginning treatment early on in the disease process can help preserve function for sometime, even though the underlying disease process can't be changed. Early diagnosis also helps family members to plan for the future, make living arrangements, and work out financial and legal matters. The Alzheimer's Association is a trusted source for information, education, referral, and support for the millions of people affected by the disease. You can call 800.272.3900 or visit online at alz.org. Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital Center 89