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Alzheimers & Dementia Care

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

July 2nd, 2008 by Harvey Gilbert, MD

Alzheimer’s disease is a brain dysfunction. It is just one of several types of progressive memory loss that falls under the label of dementia. The occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease is increasing at a very rapid rate. Generalized memory loss, which is so commonly seen in older patients, was once considered a natural phenomenon of aging. But is Alzheimer’s a natural part of the aging process or is it related to lifelong adverse lifestyle issues that can be altered? Lifestyle...Read the rest of this article »

Sundowner’s Syndrome—Causes, Symptoms, Suggestions

February 11th, 2008 by Lori Deschene

“The nights are the hardest.” I’ve heard this phrase from many people I’ve known—family members who’ve lost loved ones, friends recovering from addictions. Somehow in nighttime, with its relative quiet and vivid darkness, it’s nearly impossible to hide from one’s own mind. For people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, nighttime can be so much more than a bit too dark and quiet. In fact, sundown may be a trigger for extreme agitation and confusion...Read the rest of this article »

Alzheimer’s Care Facility Explained

February 11th, 2008 by Gilbert Guide

As Alzheimer's disease progresses to middle or later stages, it is often necessary to place the patient in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility, preferably one that specializes in treating Alzheimer's and dementia, in order to ensure proper care. Assisted living facilities offer custodial care, which includes assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating and toileting, as appropriate. In addition, assisted living aides can provide medication reminders. Skilled nursing facilities provide 24-hour skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services such...Read the rest of this article »

Alzheimer’s Care Explained

February 11th, 2008 by Gilbert Guide

Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, is a progressive, degenerative brain disorder. Brain cells shrink or disappear, gradually destroying a person's memory, ability to learn and make judgments. An estimated 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. By 2050 the number of those affected is projected to range from 11.3 million to 16 million. As Alzheimer's advances, an individual's capacity to reason and carry out normal daily activities diminishes. As the disease affects disparate areas of the brain, different...Read the rest of this article »

Early Signs and Symptoms of Dementia: What to Look For

January 23rd, 2008 by Gilbert Guide

This article outlines some of the early symptoms and signs of Alzheimer's and dementia. Keep in mind that some symptoms can also be attributed to the normal effects of aging or due to factors such as stress or depression. If your loved one experiences any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a physician for a proper diagnosis. Because Alzheimer's and other dementias affect the brain and its functioning, both behavioral and cognitive changes are apparent early in...Read the rest of this article »

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