Friday, February 10, 2012
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Alzheimer's Caregivers: 10 Things Friends and Family Members Can Do to Lighten Your Load
The Alzheimer's Association estimates that 15 million family members, friends and neighbors are currently providing 17 billion hours of care annually to Alzheimer's patients.
Caregivers pay a high price. Their experience significantly increases their emotional stress, jeopardizes their physical and mental health, and can negatively impact their employment and finances.
Alzheimer's patients, especially those in the mid and late stages, require around the clock care and no one can do that alone.
If you're the primary caregiver of an Alzheimer's loved one it's important to ask for help for two reasons. First, simply to preserve your own well-being, and second, because you can't provide good care for your loved one if you're exhausted all the time.
Many caregivers are reluctant to ask for help. They often feel they should be able to do it all and they don't want to impose upon others. The fact of the matter, however, is that most people are happy to help you, they just don't know what to do.
The first step in getting help is for you to sit down and figure out what tasks other people could do that would be helpful to you. As simple as this sounds sometimes it's not easy to determine what specific help we need.
A good way to start is to create a written list of some of the chores, errands or other things you are currently doing that could potentially be done by someone else. Then you can assign names of possible helpers to each task. After that contact each person on the list and simply ask if they would be willing to do that particular task.
Here are 10 examples of very specific ways friends and family members can help you out:
Do the laundry
Help clean the house
Cook a meal
Mow the lawn
Make minor home repairs
Pick up the patient's medicines from the pharmacy
Take your loved one to a doctor's appointment or other appointments
Take your loved one out for a drive
Come over for coffee and just be there for you as you talk about your feelings
Most important, look after your loved one for a few hours so you can have some time to yourself
So the next time someone says, "Let me know if there's anything I can do to help," have a specific request ready for them. You might be surprised at the positive responses you'll get.
OTHER RESOURCES. Please visit http://www.ComeBackEarlyToday.com to sign up for a free newsletter containing tips for Alzheimer's caregivers. You'll also find a link to purchase Dr. Marley's latest book, Come Back Early Today, which illustrates fresh approaches to the numerous heartbreaking problems that arise when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's.
You can also visit The Alzheimer's Association at http://www.alz.org
Alzheimer's Caregiving: How to Ask for Help, an article published on the Mayo Clinic's web site ( http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/alzheimers-caregiver/AZ00018 ).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marie_Marley
Caregivers pay a high price. Their experience significantly increases their emotional stress, jeopardizes their physical and mental health, and can negatively impact their employment and finances.
Alzheimer's patients, especially those in the mid and late stages, require around the clock care and no one can do that alone.
If you're the primary caregiver of an Alzheimer's loved one it's important to ask for help for two reasons. First, simply to preserve your own well-being, and second, because you can't provide good care for your loved one if you're exhausted all the time.
Many caregivers are reluctant to ask for help. They often feel they should be able to do it all and they don't want to impose upon others. The fact of the matter, however, is that most people are happy to help you, they just don't know what to do.
The first step in getting help is for you to sit down and figure out what tasks other people could do that would be helpful to you. As simple as this sounds sometimes it's not easy to determine what specific help we need.
A good way to start is to create a written list of some of the chores, errands or other things you are currently doing that could potentially be done by someone else. Then you can assign names of possible helpers to each task. After that contact each person on the list and simply ask if they would be willing to do that particular task.
Here are 10 examples of very specific ways friends and family members can help you out:
Do the laundry
Help clean the house
Cook a meal
Mow the lawn
Make minor home repairs
Pick up the patient's medicines from the pharmacy
Take your loved one to a doctor's appointment or other appointments
Take your loved one out for a drive
Come over for coffee and just be there for you as you talk about your feelings
Most important, look after your loved one for a few hours so you can have some time to yourself
So the next time someone says, "Let me know if there's anything I can do to help," have a specific request ready for them. You might be surprised at the positive responses you'll get.
OTHER RESOURCES. Please visit http://www.ComeBackEarlyToday.com to sign up for a free newsletter containing tips for Alzheimer's caregivers. You'll also find a link to purchase Dr. Marley's latest book, Come Back Early Today, which illustrates fresh approaches to the numerous heartbreaking problems that arise when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's.
You can also visit The Alzheimer's Association at http://www.alz.org
Alzheimer's Caregiving: How to Ask for Help, an article published on the Mayo Clinic's web site ( http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/alzheimers-caregiver/AZ00018 ).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marie_Marley
National Alzheimer's Project Act Passes
Despite the fact that so many Americans suffer from Alzheimer's (as many as 5.3 million, according to a report from the Alzheimer's Association), anyone with a loved one who suffers from the disease knows that it often doesn't get the national attention that it deserves.
Thanks to a new law signed into existence on January 4, that's going to change.
The National Alzheimer's Project Act-or NAPA, as it's known-was created to ensure that the United States has an "aggressive and coordinated national strategy to confront the present and rapidly escalating Alzheimer's crisis," according to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.
Under NAPA, the HHS is required to create an advisory council that will not only be responsible for coordinating all federal research and services relating to Alzheimer's, but will also work to "accelerate the development of treatments that would prevent, halt, or reverse the course of Alzheimer's" (NAPA §2.a.3). The advisory council will also strive to improve the sharing of information between organizations that are researching Alzheimer's, to improve early diagnosis, and to ensure that individuals of all races and ethnicities-especially those at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's-are included in research and available services.
In addition to all this, the new Alzheimer's advisory council will produce an annual report to present to Congress cataloguing its successes and its failures, and setting forth a course of action based on what's been learned.
To read more about the National Alzheimer's Project Act, go to the Alzheimer's Association site, or read the bill for yourself.
Tom Najjar
CarePlus Home Health, Inc
http://www.careplusinc.com
301-740-8870
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Najjar
Thanks to a new law signed into existence on January 4, that's going to change.
The National Alzheimer's Project Act-or NAPA, as it's known-was created to ensure that the United States has an "aggressive and coordinated national strategy to confront the present and rapidly escalating Alzheimer's crisis," according to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.
Under NAPA, the HHS is required to create an advisory council that will not only be responsible for coordinating all federal research and services relating to Alzheimer's, but will also work to "accelerate the development of treatments that would prevent, halt, or reverse the course of Alzheimer's" (NAPA §2.a.3). The advisory council will also strive to improve the sharing of information between organizations that are researching Alzheimer's, to improve early diagnosis, and to ensure that individuals of all races and ethnicities-especially those at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's-are included in research and available services.
In addition to all this, the new Alzheimer's advisory council will produce an annual report to present to Congress cataloguing its successes and its failures, and setting forth a course of action based on what's been learned.
To read more about the National Alzheimer's Project Act, go to the Alzheimer's Association site, or read the bill for yourself.
Tom Najjar
CarePlus Home Health, Inc
http://www.careplusinc.com
301-740-8870
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Najjar
Feel Good With Alzheimer's Disease Treatment Medication
There is a significant number of patient recuperating from Alzheimer's disease around the world. Elderly individual is most susceptible with the disease. It is known as long goodbye. Alzheimer's disease is an abnormality of the brain that causes patient to have delusions to see and hear things in the past. It can make a person forget and damage their thinking abilities. Alzheimer's disease has no cure, just ways of comfort for the patient. It is not part of aging. Doctors have yet to explain the relation between old age and the disease. There are stages of Alzheimer's disease. First is the absence of impairment. At these stage almost no memory and orientation problem visible. Second is minimal impairment. At these stage minimal lapses in memory is evident. Third is noticeable cognitive decline. Family and friends can now recognize changes in behavior and memory. Fourth is early stage/mild-Alzheimer's. Cognitive problem is now very obvious. Fifth is middle-stage /moderate Alzheimer's. Problems with memory and thinking are worsening. Assistance is needed. Sixth is moderate to late stage Alzheimer's. Personality and behavior seriously changes. Lastly is the late stage/severe Alzheimer's. At this stage, patient no longer reacts to his surroundings.
It may not have cure for Alzheimer's disease, families may lessen the burden. Patients of Alzheimer's are at risk of depression and anxiety. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease. Treatment medication is used to slow down the growth of advance stage. Most patients are given cholinesterase, an inhibitor that increases the chemicals in the brain to slow down the progress of the disease. Side-effects that are evident in this medication includes vomiting, nausea, and drastically changes in weight.
Another type of medication is Namenda, it regulates the glutamate that helps the brain to respond better to memory and learning. This kind of medication is said to be very effective. In addition to the above mentioned medication, patients were given sleeping pills to avoid insomnia. There is also anti-anxiety medication that can treat behavioral disturbance. Lastly anti-psychotic medication is used for paranoia.
Of course, doctors still believe with non-drug intervention. And families and friends can play an important part of it. If someone close to you is suffering from Alzheimer's disease, the best medication to administer is love. Their brains may be affected by the disease, but never will his heart and soul. Until there is still time, show them you care.
Want to know more about Alzheimers Disease Treatment Medication? Visit Michael Harrah's site at http://www.alzheimersmedication.org/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Harrah
It may not have cure for Alzheimer's disease, families may lessen the burden. Patients of Alzheimer's are at risk of depression and anxiety. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease. Treatment medication is used to slow down the growth of advance stage. Most patients are given cholinesterase, an inhibitor that increases the chemicals in the brain to slow down the progress of the disease. Side-effects that are evident in this medication includes vomiting, nausea, and drastically changes in weight.
Another type of medication is Namenda, it regulates the glutamate that helps the brain to respond better to memory and learning. This kind of medication is said to be very effective. In addition to the above mentioned medication, patients were given sleeping pills to avoid insomnia. There is also anti-anxiety medication that can treat behavioral disturbance. Lastly anti-psychotic medication is used for paranoia.
Of course, doctors still believe with non-drug intervention. And families and friends can play an important part of it. If someone close to you is suffering from Alzheimer's disease, the best medication to administer is love. Their brains may be affected by the disease, but never will his heart and soul. Until there is still time, show them you care.
Want to know more about Alzheimers Disease Treatment Medication? Visit Michael Harrah's site at http://www.alzheimersmedication.org/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Harrah
Can Coffee Prevent Alzheimer's?
Your morning cup of coffee may protect you from a variety of diseases, from Alzheimer's to diabetes to Parkinson's. Several studies have suggested that regular consumption of caffeine reduces the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia.
But there is a catch, it seems. A cup or two are not enough to produce the optimum benefits, according to Dr. Gary Arendash, a leading Alzheimer's researcher who has been studying the effects of caffeine on the brain. He says 500 milligrams of caffeine - equal to five cups of coffee - seems to be the amount necessary to produce a protective effect. According to Arendash, "I drink five to six cups a day religiously."
His study used mice that were bred to develop Alzheimer's. After two months (about 6 human years) of drinking caffeinated water, the mice performed much better on memory and thinking tests compared to the mice given only water. In addition, the caffeinated mice had a 50 percent reduction in beta amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
Another large, long-term study, conducted in Finland, found men and women who drank 3-5 cups of coffee per day were 65 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease twenty years later. Other studies indicate people who are regular coffee drinkers are up to 80 percent less likely to develop Parkinson's disease.
Why coffee? In addition to it's stimulating effects, coffee is also high in antioxidants. Many of us get more daily antioxidants from coffee than from fruits and vegetables! Studies have also shown that coffee cuts the risk of diabetes, as it improves insulin sensitivity.
COFFEE DRINKING TIPS
* Drink it black. You'll get more health benefits from coffee if you skip the additives. Okay, I know some of you can't imagine anything other than a Grande caramel macchiato, but just try it plain!
* Drink it early. Most folks find drinking coffee later in the day can keep them up at night. Find your "cut off point" and skip the coffee after that time to avoid insomnia.
* Drink it fresh. To maximize the flavor and prevent oxidation and loss of nutrients, coffee is best when fresh-ground.
* Drink it in moderation. Sure, the experts say you'll get the most benefits from 5 or so cups a day, but listen to your body. You may need to keep your coffee consumption at a lower level to feel your best. Coffee may cause digestive problems, jitters or insomnia in certain people, so cut back if you have any side effects. Doctors also recommend that if you're pregnant or being treated for some medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, it's best to avoid or restrict caffeine.
Don't forget that tea also contains caffeine (A cup of black tea has about half as much caffeine as a cup of coffee and a cup of green tea has about a quarter as much) and other beneficial compounds, and is less likely to produce side effects.
To learn other simple ways to prevent Alzheimer's, visit http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Craig Wallin is the editor of the Alzheimer's Prevention Digest, a free resource to help you improve your memory, stop brain aging and develop your own personal "Alzheimer's Prevention Program." To learn more, visit: http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Wallin
But there is a catch, it seems. A cup or two are not enough to produce the optimum benefits, according to Dr. Gary Arendash, a leading Alzheimer's researcher who has been studying the effects of caffeine on the brain. He says 500 milligrams of caffeine - equal to five cups of coffee - seems to be the amount necessary to produce a protective effect. According to Arendash, "I drink five to six cups a day religiously."
His study used mice that were bred to develop Alzheimer's. After two months (about 6 human years) of drinking caffeinated water, the mice performed much better on memory and thinking tests compared to the mice given only water. In addition, the caffeinated mice had a 50 percent reduction in beta amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.
Another large, long-term study, conducted in Finland, found men and women who drank 3-5 cups of coffee per day were 65 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease twenty years later. Other studies indicate people who are regular coffee drinkers are up to 80 percent less likely to develop Parkinson's disease.
Why coffee? In addition to it's stimulating effects, coffee is also high in antioxidants. Many of us get more daily antioxidants from coffee than from fruits and vegetables! Studies have also shown that coffee cuts the risk of diabetes, as it improves insulin sensitivity.
COFFEE DRINKING TIPS
* Drink it black. You'll get more health benefits from coffee if you skip the additives. Okay, I know some of you can't imagine anything other than a Grande caramel macchiato, but just try it plain!
* Drink it early. Most folks find drinking coffee later in the day can keep them up at night. Find your "cut off point" and skip the coffee after that time to avoid insomnia.
* Drink it fresh. To maximize the flavor and prevent oxidation and loss of nutrients, coffee is best when fresh-ground.
* Drink it in moderation. Sure, the experts say you'll get the most benefits from 5 or so cups a day, but listen to your body. You may need to keep your coffee consumption at a lower level to feel your best. Coffee may cause digestive problems, jitters or insomnia in certain people, so cut back if you have any side effects. Doctors also recommend that if you're pregnant or being treated for some medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, it's best to avoid or restrict caffeine.
Don't forget that tea also contains caffeine (A cup of black tea has about half as much caffeine as a cup of coffee and a cup of green tea has about a quarter as much) and other beneficial compounds, and is less likely to produce side effects.
To learn other simple ways to prevent Alzheimer's, visit http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Craig Wallin is the editor of the Alzheimer's Prevention Digest, a free resource to help you improve your memory, stop brain aging and develop your own personal "Alzheimer's Prevention Program." To learn more, visit: http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Wallin
Occupational Therapy For Alzheimer's Patients
Occupational therapy (OT) for Alzheimer's patients aids in improving their abilities to execute daily activities. As the independence level of the patients increase, the responsibilities and pressure experienced by their caregivers will reduce.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) has devastating symptoms. In fact, this disease is considered as one of the worst diseases because it mainly affects the mental functioning of individuals who suffered with this kind of disease. The sad thing about this is that AD is a terminal disease, meaning they will have this for life.
Mental functioning of AD patients decline gradually as their disease progress hence they tend to become dependent even on the simplest activities they normally do. But, with the help of occupational therapy, AD patients will develop sense of independence in performing daily routines or activities.
Occupational therapy enables patients to perform meaningful and purposeful activities. These activities involve self-care, leisure, and community activities. OT aims to improve the patients' independence, initiative, and participation in social activities. AD patients, caregivers, families, groups, and other medical practitioners should work hand in hand to become this therapy successful. The development of these factors has a big impact in the quality of life of AD patients, as well as to their caregivers.
Occupational therapists are licensed health professionals that have the responsibilities to plan, initiate, and evaluate the overall process of the therapy. If there are any physical ailments in patients who are undergoing OT, the therapists can design or prescribe devices that can help these patients perform activities involved in OT.
Previous research had suggested that non-pharmacologic treatment could have better effects compared to drug treatment for AD patients. Occupational therapy plays a big part of this non-pharmacologic treatment. Thus, this therapy is a protocol for nursing homes and other AD facilities.
The combination of OT and physical treatment is the primary management for patients with Alzheimer's disease because this treatment does not only help in improving the independence of patients, but as well as maintaining their physical health to be able to do their daily activities.
The clinical gains obtained with Occupational Therapy for Alzheimer's Patients for both patients and caregivers underline the importance of proper diagnosis and management.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheng_Torres
Alzheimer's disease (AD) has devastating symptoms. In fact, this disease is considered as one of the worst diseases because it mainly affects the mental functioning of individuals who suffered with this kind of disease. The sad thing about this is that AD is a terminal disease, meaning they will have this for life.
Mental functioning of AD patients decline gradually as their disease progress hence they tend to become dependent even on the simplest activities they normally do. But, with the help of occupational therapy, AD patients will develop sense of independence in performing daily routines or activities.
Occupational therapy enables patients to perform meaningful and purposeful activities. These activities involve self-care, leisure, and community activities. OT aims to improve the patients' independence, initiative, and participation in social activities. AD patients, caregivers, families, groups, and other medical practitioners should work hand in hand to become this therapy successful. The development of these factors has a big impact in the quality of life of AD patients, as well as to their caregivers.
Occupational therapists are licensed health professionals that have the responsibilities to plan, initiate, and evaluate the overall process of the therapy. If there are any physical ailments in patients who are undergoing OT, the therapists can design or prescribe devices that can help these patients perform activities involved in OT.
Previous research had suggested that non-pharmacologic treatment could have better effects compared to drug treatment for AD patients. Occupational therapy plays a big part of this non-pharmacologic treatment. Thus, this therapy is a protocol for nursing homes and other AD facilities.
The combination of OT and physical treatment is the primary management for patients with Alzheimer's disease because this treatment does not only help in improving the independence of patients, but as well as maintaining their physical health to be able to do their daily activities.
The clinical gains obtained with Occupational Therapy for Alzheimer's Patients for both patients and caregivers underline the importance of proper diagnosis and management.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheng_Torres
Can A Diet Prevent Alzheimer's Disease?
An important finding on the Alzheimer's front. Eating a low glycemic diet that is also low in fat, if adopted early on in life, might just help prevent Alzheimer's disease according to some latest research.
Unfortunately, starting to eat this way after symptoms appear does not appear to help patients retain their brain function.
It's not the first study to show that doing things at midlife (or even earlier) truly have an impact on your health as the years pass.
According to Alzheimer's researchers, doctors are aware that being obese in middle age is linked epidemiologically with a raised risk of dementia in later life. There may be times in our life where we are particularly vulnerable to problems, and these come at different times over a lifetime.
Your chances of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's go up quite a bit after age 70, and the condition could affect almost half of those over 85 years old. Still, experts insist that this disease is not a normal part of aging. It begins in a part of the brain that affects recent memory, then spreads over time to other parts of the brain. Treatment can slow the progression, and assist in managing symptoms, but for now there is no cure.
This latest research on diet and Alzheimer's looked at the effects of different eating plans on biomarkers that are known to be associated with the disease. Things like blood sugar level, cholesterol and lipid levels.
Subjects underwent memory testing after following diets assigned to them. A total of 49 subjects (20 healthy adults; 29 who had mild memory issues that predict Alzheimer's) ate either an eating plan high in fat and simple carbs (HIGH) or a plan with less fat and simple carbs, called, LOW.
After a month, the healthy subjects following the LOW diet showed changes in the Alzheimer's biomarkers, even insulin and lipid blood levels, that were moving in the right direction to keep the brain dementia free. In those who had some mild cognitive issues, the LOW diet displayed the opposite effect.
We still don't have hard-and-fast proof, despite plentiful research on the connection between lifestyle and thinking ability, that diet, or anything else for that matter, can prevent Alzheimer's or any other type of dementia in the elderly. A health conference held last spring came to the conclusion that advancing age is the top risk for Alzheimer's, though a genetic variation is also known to be associated with higher risk as well.
Until we know more, the best protection against life altering Alzheimer's disease is to live an overall healthy lifestyle. Eat right to bring down your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and perhaps Alzheimer's. Limit processed foods and be as active as you can, as often as you can.
Do what you can to keep other risk factors in check - work with your doctor to treat diseases like heart disease, and manage high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol levels so that you keep your body in the best shape possible.
Another study that looked at ways to prevent Alzheimer's disease found that biomarkers at different levels were tied to different measures of function related to Alzheimer's. This might help doctors get better at diagnosis, which is now done mostly on the basis of clinical observations. While a true diagnosis of Alzheimer's cannot be made until after death when an autopsy is performed, doctors rely today on a medical process of elimination if a patient has suspicious symptoms.
FREE Bonus Secret Health Reports - For a limited time you can grab 5 FREE essential health reports from the Daily Health Bulletin. Click through now to discover more about ways to help prevent Alzheimer's disease.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kirsten_Whittaker
Unfortunately, starting to eat this way after symptoms appear does not appear to help patients retain their brain function.
It's not the first study to show that doing things at midlife (or even earlier) truly have an impact on your health as the years pass.
According to Alzheimer's researchers, doctors are aware that being obese in middle age is linked epidemiologically with a raised risk of dementia in later life. There may be times in our life where we are particularly vulnerable to problems, and these come at different times over a lifetime.
Your chances of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's go up quite a bit after age 70, and the condition could affect almost half of those over 85 years old. Still, experts insist that this disease is not a normal part of aging. It begins in a part of the brain that affects recent memory, then spreads over time to other parts of the brain. Treatment can slow the progression, and assist in managing symptoms, but for now there is no cure.
This latest research on diet and Alzheimer's looked at the effects of different eating plans on biomarkers that are known to be associated with the disease. Things like blood sugar level, cholesterol and lipid levels.
Subjects underwent memory testing after following diets assigned to them. A total of 49 subjects (20 healthy adults; 29 who had mild memory issues that predict Alzheimer's) ate either an eating plan high in fat and simple carbs (HIGH) or a plan with less fat and simple carbs, called, LOW.
After a month, the healthy subjects following the LOW diet showed changes in the Alzheimer's biomarkers, even insulin and lipid blood levels, that were moving in the right direction to keep the brain dementia free. In those who had some mild cognitive issues, the LOW diet displayed the opposite effect.
We still don't have hard-and-fast proof, despite plentiful research on the connection between lifestyle and thinking ability, that diet, or anything else for that matter, can prevent Alzheimer's or any other type of dementia in the elderly. A health conference held last spring came to the conclusion that advancing age is the top risk for Alzheimer's, though a genetic variation is also known to be associated with higher risk as well.
Until we know more, the best protection against life altering Alzheimer's disease is to live an overall healthy lifestyle. Eat right to bring down your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and perhaps Alzheimer's. Limit processed foods and be as active as you can, as often as you can.
Do what you can to keep other risk factors in check - work with your doctor to treat diseases like heart disease, and manage high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol levels so that you keep your body in the best shape possible.
Another study that looked at ways to prevent Alzheimer's disease found that biomarkers at different levels were tied to different measures of function related to Alzheimer's. This might help doctors get better at diagnosis, which is now done mostly on the basis of clinical observations. While a true diagnosis of Alzheimer's cannot be made until after death when an autopsy is performed, doctors rely today on a medical process of elimination if a patient has suspicious symptoms.
FREE Bonus Secret Health Reports - For a limited time you can grab 5 FREE essential health reports from the Daily Health Bulletin. Click through now to discover more about ways to help prevent Alzheimer's disease.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kirsten_Whittaker
Natural Steps to Protect Yourself From Alzheimer's Disease
Many people believe occasional lapses in memory are normal and part of getting old, but medical research shows us that `senior moments' should not be viewed as normal aging and are cause for concern. Cognitive decline and loss of short term memory are caused by the same process that leads to the most feared form of dementia, Alzheimer's disease. Fortunately there are a number of lifestyle altering steps you can take to lower disease risk, prevent progression and improve your memory.
Early Memory Loss Leads to Alzheimer`s Disease
The results of a study published in the journal Neurology shows that occasional forgetfulness as we age should not be regarded as normal and is actually the early stage of dementia. The study followed 350 nuns and priests over a 13 year period and involved annual cognitive testing.
The brain tissues of the participants were examined after death to assess the physical markers that are linked with dementia. The researchers found that those with the most marked cognitive decline exhibited the highest degree of brain lesions and tangles that are typically found in Alzheimer's patients. The study authors were able to associate even the mildest cognitive decline with physical brain lesions.
Poor Lifestyle and Diet are Behind the Dementia Explosion
The rapid increase in Alzheimer's disease cases over the past 50 years is due to the excessive amount of processed foods that are consumed at every meal. These foods have been stripped of the essential nutrients and antioxidants that are found in natural food sources and are required by our brain to function optimally. Our poor diet is combined with a lack of physical activity that promotes cognitive decline. There is solid evidence that exercise promotes the development of new brain cells and can prevent memory decline.
Natural Foods Promote Cognitive Agility
Foods in their natural form are packed with a wide array of nutrients which are vital to brain health. Fresh vegetables, leafy greens, nuts and seeds infuse our body with vitamins and minerals that are able to cross the blood-brain barrier where they are used to fuel the countless chemical and electrical processes we know as thought and memory. A daily diet filled with lifeless refined foods is simply unable to provide the necessary building blocks to sustain cognitive function and eliminate plaque accumulation.
Improving Lifestyle to Prevent Dementia
Dementia is a disease that progresses over the course of a lifetime due to poor diet and lifestyle choices. When we`re young our body has an amazing capacity to protect us to ensure we are able to reproduce. Many of these defenses begin to decline after age 35 and we become much more vulnerable to heart disease, cancer and especially dementia. Fortunately we can improve our diet and limit exposure to environmental and household toxins that we breathe and ingest. Make a conscious effort to eliminate Teflon cookware, aluminum-based antiperspirants, mercury and fluoride from drinking water and toothpaste. Trace amounts of these pollutants enter your body every day and ultimately promote disease.
In addition to adopting a natural diet and engaging in regular exercise, it`s important to challenge your brain daily. Read a new book, surf the web or do a crossword puzzle to stimulate brain activity and neuron growth. You can control the risk factors that prevent cognitive decline and lead to vibrant health.
Read More Expert Advice on Diet, Health and Nutrition, and Download your Free Weight Loss EBook!
John Phillip is a Health Researcher and Author of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan', a comprehensive EBook explaining how to use Diet, Exercise and Targeted Supplementation to naturally achieve your healthy Weight Loss goal. Visit My Optimal Health Resource to download your Free 48 page copy.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_L._Phillip
Early Memory Loss Leads to Alzheimer`s Disease
The results of a study published in the journal Neurology shows that occasional forgetfulness as we age should not be regarded as normal and is actually the early stage of dementia. The study followed 350 nuns and priests over a 13 year period and involved annual cognitive testing.
The brain tissues of the participants were examined after death to assess the physical markers that are linked with dementia. The researchers found that those with the most marked cognitive decline exhibited the highest degree of brain lesions and tangles that are typically found in Alzheimer's patients. The study authors were able to associate even the mildest cognitive decline with physical brain lesions.
Poor Lifestyle and Diet are Behind the Dementia Explosion
The rapid increase in Alzheimer's disease cases over the past 50 years is due to the excessive amount of processed foods that are consumed at every meal. These foods have been stripped of the essential nutrients and antioxidants that are found in natural food sources and are required by our brain to function optimally. Our poor diet is combined with a lack of physical activity that promotes cognitive decline. There is solid evidence that exercise promotes the development of new brain cells and can prevent memory decline.
Natural Foods Promote Cognitive Agility
Foods in their natural form are packed with a wide array of nutrients which are vital to brain health. Fresh vegetables, leafy greens, nuts and seeds infuse our body with vitamins and minerals that are able to cross the blood-brain barrier where they are used to fuel the countless chemical and electrical processes we know as thought and memory. A daily diet filled with lifeless refined foods is simply unable to provide the necessary building blocks to sustain cognitive function and eliminate plaque accumulation.
Improving Lifestyle to Prevent Dementia
Dementia is a disease that progresses over the course of a lifetime due to poor diet and lifestyle choices. When we`re young our body has an amazing capacity to protect us to ensure we are able to reproduce. Many of these defenses begin to decline after age 35 and we become much more vulnerable to heart disease, cancer and especially dementia. Fortunately we can improve our diet and limit exposure to environmental and household toxins that we breathe and ingest. Make a conscious effort to eliminate Teflon cookware, aluminum-based antiperspirants, mercury and fluoride from drinking water and toothpaste. Trace amounts of these pollutants enter your body every day and ultimately promote disease.
In addition to adopting a natural diet and engaging in regular exercise, it`s important to challenge your brain daily. Read a new book, surf the web or do a crossword puzzle to stimulate brain activity and neuron growth. You can control the risk factors that prevent cognitive decline and lead to vibrant health.
Read More Expert Advice on Diet, Health and Nutrition, and Download your Free Weight Loss EBook!
John Phillip is a Health Researcher and Author of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan', a comprehensive EBook explaining how to use Diet, Exercise and Targeted Supplementation to naturally achieve your healthy Weight Loss goal. Visit My Optimal Health Resource to download your Free 48 page copy.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_L._Phillip
Alzheimer's Test - PAL Test for Alzheimer's Disease
There is a new ten-minutes test which determines whether a person has alzheimer's is the PAL paired associates learning test or CANTAB. That open the possibilities' doors for alzheimer's treatment and that can also open many doors for new drugs, which may be tested on the live subject. It can make a distinction between alzheimer's patients and persons that haven't any neuropsychiatric disorder.
The test accuracy is higher than MME, FAST and other tests of alzheimer's. CANTAB PAL test has been developed by Dr. Barbara and Professor Robbins.
It can test the brain area which will be first affected by disease. Alzheimer's early diagnosis is the only alternative for patients because alzheimer's can't be treated. Alzheimer's statics show that 20% of people over 85 and 2% to 5% of people over 65 are suffering from alzheimer's. Early diagnosis and detection are an essential factor for treating alzheimer's effectively.
Preventive therapies' research can be speeded up by alzheimer's early detection. Whether therapies are techniques such as diet and drug therapies, researchers will have subjects that undergo a test to determine the therapies' effects.
The impaired performance has been suggested by that researches results on the neuropsychological test. PAL ( CANTAB paired associates learning ) is a test for episodic memory.
PAL test assesses the patient ability to learn and visual memory. It can prove tools for making and assessing determination on dementia types, age related memory loss and a patient with dementia resulted from alzheimer's.
PAL alzheimer's test features:
It is applied on a computer screen. It has many boxes, which are displayed on the screen. PAL boxes are opened in a random way. One box will display as a pattern. Patterns are displayed in the screen middle. Patient will be asked to touch correct boxes where the pattern was located.
Alzheimer's - Alzheimer's causes and symptoms
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Abod_Mahady
The test accuracy is higher than MME, FAST and other tests of alzheimer's. CANTAB PAL test has been developed by Dr. Barbara and Professor Robbins.
It can test the brain area which will be first affected by disease. Alzheimer's early diagnosis is the only alternative for patients because alzheimer's can't be treated. Alzheimer's statics show that 20% of people over 85 and 2% to 5% of people over 65 are suffering from alzheimer's. Early diagnosis and detection are an essential factor for treating alzheimer's effectively.
Preventive therapies' research can be speeded up by alzheimer's early detection. Whether therapies are techniques such as diet and drug therapies, researchers will have subjects that undergo a test to determine the therapies' effects.
The impaired performance has been suggested by that researches results on the neuropsychological test. PAL ( CANTAB paired associates learning ) is a test for episodic memory.
PAL test assesses the patient ability to learn and visual memory. It can prove tools for making and assessing determination on dementia types, age related memory loss and a patient with dementia resulted from alzheimer's.
PAL alzheimer's test features:
It is applied on a computer screen. It has many boxes, which are displayed on the screen. PAL boxes are opened in a random way. One box will display as a pattern. Patterns are displayed in the screen middle. Patient will be asked to touch correct boxes where the pattern was located.
Alzheimer's - Alzheimer's causes and symptoms
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Abod_Mahady
We Care In Alzheimer's Home Care
Alzheimer's is a progressive disease. It worsens over time. It is a difficult situation to have Alzheimer's disease; it even worse experience for patient's family to cope with the disease. Monitoring the daily activities such as eating, talking, and sleeping can be hard. To ease the burden, family members opt for Alzheimer's home care. When searching for the best home care, long-term needs must be considered. Another factor is the level of care, the location and budget.
Alzheimer's home care usually provides physical therapy. In this establishment, extra care and medical attention can be given to the patient. Safety is the number one priority in home care and will be able to administer proper medication. They teaches the patient new ways to communicate with their love ones because as the disease progresses, they might forget how to communicate with others. There are different types which are dependent on the services being offered. First is the assisted living. It is the common choice for the residential area. They mainly offered personal care and supportive care like housekeeping and transportation. Second is skilled care or nursing homes. It is less popular because the assistants are not merely professionals. Third is hospice care. This is nursing home for the final stage Alzheimer's. Skilled care is necessary for this type of attention. Last is continuing care retirement communities (CCRC). It is like a campus which provides all levels of assistance ranging from independent to skilled care assistance.
Home care is always a first choice though it is also a reality that Alzheimer's condition still needs the external environment such as companion and friends, nursing attendant or caregiver. This type of attention provides our loved ones the familiar surroundings. In this case, confusion can be avoided. It is generally cheaper than any other agencies, most especially if care-giving is done by the family members. On the other hand, Alzheimer's home care service provides a big help to the patient. It also prevents families to burn-out. Family members must ensure that they visit the patient regularly. Above all, love and support is the best medicine in any kind of sickness.
Want to know more about Alzheimer's Home Care? Visit Michael Harrah's site at http://www.alzheimersmedication.org/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Harrah
Alzheimer's home care usually provides physical therapy. In this establishment, extra care and medical attention can be given to the patient. Safety is the number one priority in home care and will be able to administer proper medication. They teaches the patient new ways to communicate with their love ones because as the disease progresses, they might forget how to communicate with others. There are different types which are dependent on the services being offered. First is the assisted living. It is the common choice for the residential area. They mainly offered personal care and supportive care like housekeeping and transportation. Second is skilled care or nursing homes. It is less popular because the assistants are not merely professionals. Third is hospice care. This is nursing home for the final stage Alzheimer's. Skilled care is necessary for this type of attention. Last is continuing care retirement communities (CCRC). It is like a campus which provides all levels of assistance ranging from independent to skilled care assistance.
Home care is always a first choice though it is also a reality that Alzheimer's condition still needs the external environment such as companion and friends, nursing attendant or caregiver. This type of attention provides our loved ones the familiar surroundings. In this case, confusion can be avoided. It is generally cheaper than any other agencies, most especially if care-giving is done by the family members. On the other hand, Alzheimer's home care service provides a big help to the patient. It also prevents families to burn-out. Family members must ensure that they visit the patient regularly. Above all, love and support is the best medicine in any kind of sickness.
Want to know more about Alzheimer's Home Care? Visit Michael Harrah's site at http://www.alzheimersmedication.org/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Harrah
Finding Information on Alzheimer's Disease
Whether you are concerned about emergent memory problems in yourself, or have a loved one who has recently received a diagnosis of Alzheimer's, you may have lots of questions when it comes to this very common, very widespread disease. In this article, we present to you some of the best and most comprehensive resources available online for Alzheimer's disease, from onset symptoms to end-stage care. Alzheimer's can be a frightening and difficult topic to explore, but we hope that you will find, in the resources below, some websites and organizations that can provide you with the information, support or comfort that you may be looking for.
One of the first and best places to start is the website for the Alzheimer's Association, which contains a comprehensive overview of the disease, as well as sections devoted to advocacy, treatment and research. The Alzheimer's Association is one of the largest national organizations devoted exclusively to Alzheimer's, and in addition to their website, they also have a toll-free helpline that is available 24/7 at 1-800-272-3900. The Alzheimer's Association's California Council has also developed "best practice" guidelines on care, treatment and education for the disease, which can serve as a useful roadmap for families who have a loved one with Alzheimer's.
For in-depth information on Alzheimer's, you can visit the National Institute on Aging's Alzheimer's Disease and Education Referral Center (ADEAR). In addition to information on symptoms and diagnosis, the ADEAR site contains some of the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on Alzheimer's research and clinical trials on the web. ADEAR can also be reached via telephone at 1-800-438-4380.
Excellent, detailed information on all aspects of Alzheimer's can be found at the New York Online Access to Health or NOAH, containing information on everything from symptoms to treatment, as well as contingent concerns such as legal and financial issues, and caregiver support. Caregivers also have a number of resources devoted to them online, including the Family Caregiver Alliance, which maintains a number of fact sheets on various conditions, including Alzheimer's. The fact sheet includes details about the disease itself, options and warnings regarding treatment, and strategies for caregiving during each progressive stage of the disease. Other resources for caregivers include The National Alliance for Caregiving, and the Caregiving Resource Center at the American Association of Retired People.
As you can see, the internet is overflowing with information on Alzheimer's that can help you on your journey with this disease, whether it be a search for details on symptoms and diagnoses, or an attempt to connect to other families coping with similar circumstances. We hope that the resources above can set you well on your way toward being more informed, more empowered, and more able to deal with the effects of Alzheimer's on your life.
Get your FREE eBook [http://forlifesnextphase.com] "Unravelling Alzheimer's Disease" Today!
At For Life's Next Phase , we help many families with the sensitive issue of senior moving. From downsizing, to a move to assisted living, we can help remove the stress of organizing and packing their personal belongings. If you would like information about how For Lifes Next Phase can help your family with a senior transition, please visit [http://www.forlifesnextphase.com] or call us at 925-999-8950.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janet_L_Giacoma
One of the first and best places to start is the website for the Alzheimer's Association, which contains a comprehensive overview of the disease, as well as sections devoted to advocacy, treatment and research. The Alzheimer's Association is one of the largest national organizations devoted exclusively to Alzheimer's, and in addition to their website, they also have a toll-free helpline that is available 24/7 at 1-800-272-3900. The Alzheimer's Association's California Council has also developed "best practice" guidelines on care, treatment and education for the disease, which can serve as a useful roadmap for families who have a loved one with Alzheimer's.
For in-depth information on Alzheimer's, you can visit the National Institute on Aging's Alzheimer's Disease and Education Referral Center (ADEAR). In addition to information on symptoms and diagnosis, the ADEAR site contains some of the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on Alzheimer's research and clinical trials on the web. ADEAR can also be reached via telephone at 1-800-438-4380.
Excellent, detailed information on all aspects of Alzheimer's can be found at the New York Online Access to Health or NOAH, containing information on everything from symptoms to treatment, as well as contingent concerns such as legal and financial issues, and caregiver support. Caregivers also have a number of resources devoted to them online, including the Family Caregiver Alliance, which maintains a number of fact sheets on various conditions, including Alzheimer's. The fact sheet includes details about the disease itself, options and warnings regarding treatment, and strategies for caregiving during each progressive stage of the disease. Other resources for caregivers include The National Alliance for Caregiving, and the Caregiving Resource Center at the American Association of Retired People.
As you can see, the internet is overflowing with information on Alzheimer's that can help you on your journey with this disease, whether it be a search for details on symptoms and diagnoses, or an attempt to connect to other families coping with similar circumstances. We hope that the resources above can set you well on your way toward being more informed, more empowered, and more able to deal with the effects of Alzheimer's on your life.
Get your FREE eBook [http://forlifesnextphase.com] "Unravelling Alzheimer's Disease" Today!
At For Life's Next Phase , we help many families with the sensitive issue of senior moving. From downsizing, to a move to assisted living, we can help remove the stress of organizing and packing their personal belongings. If you would like information about how For Lifes Next Phase can help your family with a senior transition, please visit [http://www.forlifesnextphase.com] or call us at 925-999-8950.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janet_L_Giacoma
The Truth About Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease
Most people are aware of Alzheimer's disease, but generally we think about this as only an affliction of the elderly. The truth is that younger people are not immune to this unfortunate disease; in fact more than 200,000 Americans under the age of 65 are affected by early onset Alzheimer's. Here is a closer look at this often overlooked disease.
Causes of Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease
At this point in time, there is not definitive or widely agreed upon understanding of what causes early onset Alzheimer's disease. Scientists have reported that, among a relatively small number of families around the world, there appear to be a variety of genes that manifest themselves as Alzheimer's symptoms in people in their 30's, 40's, and 50's. This type of Alzheimer's is referred to as "familial Alzheimer's disease" when several generations of a family are affected by deterministic genes.
Diagnosing Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease
Sadly, many people who suffer from early onset Alzheimer's are not correctly diagnosed when they begin displaying symptoms of the disease. This can be attributed to a number of factors: for one, the majority of doctors are not looking for nor considering Alzheimer's to be a likely cause for symptoms being displayed by a patient in their 30's or 40's because of the relatively infrequent rate of the disease among this age group. Furthermore, many of the symptoms of early onset Alzheimer's are also symptoms of other, much more common problems faced by many adults: stress, depression, anxiety, and so on. Finally, there is not just one set of symptoms which people with early onset Alzheimer's will display; symptoms very from person to person, and when the doctor sees the patient, they might be in early, middle, or late stage of dementia. Because of these reasons, it can be a very difficult, frustrating, and time consuming process for many sufferers of early onset Alzheimer's before they are finally properly diagnosed.
Treatment Options
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease. That being said, once the disease has been diagnosed, people with the disease can get support and with support comes a higher quality of life. If you or a loved one is experiencing any noticeable amount of problems with memory, the first step is to write down exactly what difficulties and symptoms are being experienced. Then, an appointment should be made with a health professional that specializes in Alzheimer's disease.
Mike Lewis is the content manager for Chicagoland Methodist Senior Services. CMSS provides dementia care for seniors in Chicago.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S_Mike_Lewis
Causes of Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease
At this point in time, there is not definitive or widely agreed upon understanding of what causes early onset Alzheimer's disease. Scientists have reported that, among a relatively small number of families around the world, there appear to be a variety of genes that manifest themselves as Alzheimer's symptoms in people in their 30's, 40's, and 50's. This type of Alzheimer's is referred to as "familial Alzheimer's disease" when several generations of a family are affected by deterministic genes.
Diagnosing Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease
Sadly, many people who suffer from early onset Alzheimer's are not correctly diagnosed when they begin displaying symptoms of the disease. This can be attributed to a number of factors: for one, the majority of doctors are not looking for nor considering Alzheimer's to be a likely cause for symptoms being displayed by a patient in their 30's or 40's because of the relatively infrequent rate of the disease among this age group. Furthermore, many of the symptoms of early onset Alzheimer's are also symptoms of other, much more common problems faced by many adults: stress, depression, anxiety, and so on. Finally, there is not just one set of symptoms which people with early onset Alzheimer's will display; symptoms very from person to person, and when the doctor sees the patient, they might be in early, middle, or late stage of dementia. Because of these reasons, it can be a very difficult, frustrating, and time consuming process for many sufferers of early onset Alzheimer's before they are finally properly diagnosed.
Treatment Options
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease. That being said, once the disease has been diagnosed, people with the disease can get support and with support comes a higher quality of life. If you or a loved one is experiencing any noticeable amount of problems with memory, the first step is to write down exactly what difficulties and symptoms are being experienced. Then, an appointment should be made with a health professional that specializes in Alzheimer's disease.
Mike Lewis is the content manager for Chicagoland Methodist Senior Services. CMSS provides dementia care for seniors in Chicago.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S_Mike_Lewis
Alzheimer's Testing
More than 5 million people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease - most in the advanced stages of Alzheimer's, when it is too late to slow the progress of the disease. Just as heart disease is preceded by years of warning signs, such as increasing blood pressure and cholesterol numbers, Alzheimer's disease and dementia are preceded by years of decline in memory and cognition. If this decline is identified early enough, there is still time to preserve and protect your brain from further decline. According to Dr. Eric Braverman, an expert on brain function, "I have seen many patients experience a complete reversal of memory loss when it is diagnosed and treated in it's early stages."
A simple, but effective, test for the early signs of dementia relies on our ability to identify smells. The ability to identify aromas is diminished in Alzheimer's patients, and researchers have narrowed the list of scents to just ten that have been shown to be the most accurate in assessing Alzheimer's risk:
Clove, leather, lemon, lilac, menthol, natural gas, pineapple, smoke, soap and strawberry.
Researchers at Columbia University found that the "sniff test" had a greater degree of accuracy in predicting Alzheimer's disease than tests using brain imaging (very expensive!) or genetics.
A simple urine test is gaining wider acceptance in the medical community as a diagnostic tool for Alzheimer's disease. The test, called AD7C, measures neural thread protein, a protein found in large amounts in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. NTP is associated with one of the characteristics of Alzheimer's, neurofibrillary tangles.
If a friend or family member is showing signs of mental impairment, it's important to have them see a doctor and have Alzheimer's tests. One reason is that the signs of Alzheimer's mimic those of other, easily treatable disorders, such as the side effects of prescription medications, depression, B12 or folic acid deficiency and head injury.
Because someone in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's may function reasonably well, the condition may only be apparent to a close friend, spouse or other family member. They are the "front line" of detection because they are more aware of the subtle, gradual signs of Alzheimer's that occur. So if you are seeing what may be symptoms of alzheimer's in a friend or relative, encourage them to get an Alzheimer's test.
Early detection is so important because if Alzheimer's or dementia can be slowed or delayed with preventive measures for even two or three years, we have given that person the gift of independence and quality of life for those years. Currently, 95 percent of those with Alzheimer's disease are diagnosed four years after the first symptoms appear. By then, it's often too late to slow or delay the disease.
IS IT ALZHEIMER'S - OR IS IT A "SENIOR MOMENT?"
While it's easy to become concerned when you misplace your car keys, or forget someone's name or telephone number, most memory lapses are simply part of natural aging, and you'll remember that name or find those car keys later. If you're concerned about a friend or family member, here are two quick tests and a simple questionnaire that can help you determine whether it's time to see a doctor for a more thorough evaluation.
CLOCK DRAWING TEST
Give the person a piece of paper, and ask them to draw a clock, with all the numbers in the correct position, and the hands set at ten past eleven. To score the test:
Drawing a closed circle: 1 point.
Drawing all 12 numbers: 1 point.
Numbers in correct place: 1 point.
Clock hands at correct time: 1 point.
Medical professionals have found that a normal clock drawing (score of 4) almost always predicts that a person's cognitive skills are in a normal range.
CHANGE TEST
Give the person 3 quarters, 7 dimes and 7 nickels, and ask them to put together 1 dollar in change. Time the response, and allow up to 2 minutes. Normal response time is around 15 seconds.
EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES QUESTIONNAIRE
A family member or caregiver rates the level of performance for the following tasks using the point scale:
0 = normal; 1 = has difficulty, but can manage; 2 = requires help; 3 = dependent.
____ writing checks and balancing a checkbook.
____ making out business and insurance papers.
____ shopping alone for groceries or clothes.
____ playing a game, bridge or chess for example, or working on a hobby.
____ heating water for a cup of tea or coffee, and turning off the stove.
____ preparing a balanced meal.
____ keeping track of current events.
____ paying attention to and understanding a TV show, book or magazine.
____ remembering appointments, medications and family events.
____ leaving the neighborhood by driving or taking the bus.
Score by adding the points for all ten questions. The higher the score, the greater the impairment. When the questions are answered accurately by a family member or caregiver, the test is highly accurate in determining cognitive impairment. If the total score is over ten, or three or more questions are scored 3, it's time to see a doctor for more in-depth testing.
Don't wait. Many folks are so afraid and fearful of Alzheimer's testing and that the doctor's diagnosis may be Alzheimer's that they won't take the first step to get tested. But taking the first step is the best thing you can do. If your doctor confirms an Alzheimer's diagnosis, you can take immediate steps to slow the progression, and live as full a life as possible.
To learn more about the tests mentioned in this article, or about how to prevent or delay Alzheimer's disease, visit: http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Craig Wallin is the editor of the Alzheimer's Prevention Digest, a free resource to help you improve your memory, stop brain aging and develop your own personal "Alzheimer's Prevention Program." To learn more, visit: alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Wallin
A simple, but effective, test for the early signs of dementia relies on our ability to identify smells. The ability to identify aromas is diminished in Alzheimer's patients, and researchers have narrowed the list of scents to just ten that have been shown to be the most accurate in assessing Alzheimer's risk:
Clove, leather, lemon, lilac, menthol, natural gas, pineapple, smoke, soap and strawberry.
Researchers at Columbia University found that the "sniff test" had a greater degree of accuracy in predicting Alzheimer's disease than tests using brain imaging (very expensive!) or genetics.
A simple urine test is gaining wider acceptance in the medical community as a diagnostic tool for Alzheimer's disease. The test, called AD7C, measures neural thread protein, a protein found in large amounts in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. NTP is associated with one of the characteristics of Alzheimer's, neurofibrillary tangles.
If a friend or family member is showing signs of mental impairment, it's important to have them see a doctor and have Alzheimer's tests. One reason is that the signs of Alzheimer's mimic those of other, easily treatable disorders, such as the side effects of prescription medications, depression, B12 or folic acid deficiency and head injury.
Because someone in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's may function reasonably well, the condition may only be apparent to a close friend, spouse or other family member. They are the "front line" of detection because they are more aware of the subtle, gradual signs of Alzheimer's that occur. So if you are seeing what may be symptoms of alzheimer's in a friend or relative, encourage them to get an Alzheimer's test.
Early detection is so important because if Alzheimer's or dementia can be slowed or delayed with preventive measures for even two or three years, we have given that person the gift of independence and quality of life for those years. Currently, 95 percent of those with Alzheimer's disease are diagnosed four years after the first symptoms appear. By then, it's often too late to slow or delay the disease.
IS IT ALZHEIMER'S - OR IS IT A "SENIOR MOMENT?"
While it's easy to become concerned when you misplace your car keys, or forget someone's name or telephone number, most memory lapses are simply part of natural aging, and you'll remember that name or find those car keys later. If you're concerned about a friend or family member, here are two quick tests and a simple questionnaire that can help you determine whether it's time to see a doctor for a more thorough evaluation.
CLOCK DRAWING TEST
Give the person a piece of paper, and ask them to draw a clock, with all the numbers in the correct position, and the hands set at ten past eleven. To score the test:
Drawing a closed circle: 1 point.
Drawing all 12 numbers: 1 point.
Numbers in correct place: 1 point.
Clock hands at correct time: 1 point.
Medical professionals have found that a normal clock drawing (score of 4) almost always predicts that a person's cognitive skills are in a normal range.
CHANGE TEST
Give the person 3 quarters, 7 dimes and 7 nickels, and ask them to put together 1 dollar in change. Time the response, and allow up to 2 minutes. Normal response time is around 15 seconds.
EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES QUESTIONNAIRE
A family member or caregiver rates the level of performance for the following tasks using the point scale:
0 = normal; 1 = has difficulty, but can manage; 2 = requires help; 3 = dependent.
____ writing checks and balancing a checkbook.
____ making out business and insurance papers.
____ shopping alone for groceries or clothes.
____ playing a game, bridge or chess for example, or working on a hobby.
____ heating water for a cup of tea or coffee, and turning off the stove.
____ preparing a balanced meal.
____ keeping track of current events.
____ paying attention to and understanding a TV show, book or magazine.
____ remembering appointments, medications and family events.
____ leaving the neighborhood by driving or taking the bus.
Score by adding the points for all ten questions. The higher the score, the greater the impairment. When the questions are answered accurately by a family member or caregiver, the test is highly accurate in determining cognitive impairment. If the total score is over ten, or three or more questions are scored 3, it's time to see a doctor for more in-depth testing.
Don't wait. Many folks are so afraid and fearful of Alzheimer's testing and that the doctor's diagnosis may be Alzheimer's that they won't take the first step to get tested. But taking the first step is the best thing you can do. If your doctor confirms an Alzheimer's diagnosis, you can take immediate steps to slow the progression, and live as full a life as possible.
To learn more about the tests mentioned in this article, or about how to prevent or delay Alzheimer's disease, visit: http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Craig Wallin is the editor of the Alzheimer's Prevention Digest, a free resource to help you improve your memory, stop brain aging and develop your own personal "Alzheimer's Prevention Program." To learn more, visit: alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Wallin
Alzheimer's Symptoms - What Can We Do?
Once old age was merely called 'senility' and it was anticipated that acuteness of faculties would diminish gradually in those who lived beyond the age of seventy.
Most of us as we get older display some of the following irregularities in memory and behaviour as we become swamped with information and activities. We need quiet reflection and meditation to allow time to assimilate all the knowledge and experiences of daily life. Those who recognize this need and practise this, are less likely to develop serious problems.
However, western lifestyles result in increasing numbers of cases of what is now known as Alzheimer's disease evidencing many symptoms of brain dysfunction and unreliable function of faculties. The following states are generally considered as important in early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. It should be remembered that to this point there is no guarantee of modern medicine that any proposed treatment will provide relief, let alone a cure.
Considered as one of the most common signs of Alzheimer's, especially in the early stages, is forgetfulness which hardly needs description as most of us suffer mild memory lapses. However should minor signs such as forgetting names, dates or events, or mislaying articles begin to include major incidents, with potentially dangerous ramifications, these memory lapses become a more serious problem to the individual and to those around him.
When our sense of independence decreases or when our reliance upon other family members or friends increases markedly is not good, particularly if associated with our general state of reduced sense of personal responsibility or self esteem.
Tasks that involve planning or solving problems such as payment of bills can become challenges in those inclined towards Alzheimer's disease.
Together with increasing age is a natural reduction in physical abilities and skills with subsequent tendency to a reduced sense of self worth. There is then a need for psychological readjustment and realization that emotional and intellectual skills need not be affected, and may even increase with age and wisdom.
Reluctance to take on new projects or interests is sometimes an indication of lack of mental health and vitality and can be taken as a symptom of Alzheimer's in some cases.
Incompletion of tasks is regarded as a symptom. Difficulty in completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure - because of lack of concentration is easy to understand when other interests attract greater attention. Effort to maintain the faculty of concentration is imperative and becomes easier if one can "live here and now" - in the moment.
Inability to master settings and functions of microwave, TV, or electronic equipment is regarded as a symptom of inadequate or abnormal faculties. But of course this indication must be modified according to the degree of earlier education received. Many older people have not been tutored how to use the vastly increasing number of technological gadgets used today. Some people consciously choose to avoid their use.
Confusion with time or place. People with Alzheimer's are known to lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. In some advanced conditions they may forget where they are or how they got there. Many patients are 'wanderers'.
Many irregularities in physical and mental health states can naturally occur when we are not vital and active. But severe development of distorted perceptions including visual and spatial relationships, or judging distance colours or contrasts, to some researchers confirms Alzheimer's.
Difficulty in following conversations and an inclination to repeat themselves is obvious to others but a person developing Alzheimer's often is unaware. Struggling with vocabulary to find the right word or remember a name, sometimes offering inventive alternatives such as calling a watch a 'hand-clock', for instance. Friends in the older age groups will often laugh about this shared difficulty. When extreme it is seen as an important symptom.
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. A person with Alzheimer's disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. They may misplace things from time to time, such as a pair of glasses or the remote control. But entirely inappropriate placement of articles is now observed as an indication of a serious development of a brain symptom.
Decreased or poor judgment and decision-making seems to focus a need for medical attention. A common example can be displayed with money, with gambling or when unreasonable amounts of money are given to modern telemarketers.
One of the most embarrassing symptoms of advanced cases of Alzheimer's we have all witnessed at some time with those who pay diminishing attention to personal hygiene and grooming. So we should all be keen to 'look after ourselves'!
A degree of withdrawal social activities or from work situations is normal but Alzheimer's may cause a person to even cease hobbies, social contacts, work projects or sports and if this is the case, a patient's welfare becomes a real concern.
Extreme changes in mood and personality are apt to display negative states and behaviour such as confusion, suspicion, depression, or unreasonable anxiety, often becoming irritable or anxious when a routine is disrupted.
When considering what increasing age can do to our bodies, the changes are obvious. Most of us would make some effort to stall the natural diminution of muscle strength and skin tone that occurs. Similar changes in our mental structure are to be anticipated and these we must also make some effort to deter.
Medical research into Alzheimer's is considerable. Many drugs are being researched to counter the symptoms of the condition. Many scientists are seeking for causes as well as cures. These activities have only recently been occurring over the last several decades. There are no satisfactory answers given out as yet. There are no guiding suggestions to help reduce the disease rate in the community.
Body and brain are inter-related so common sense tells us in the meantime that we must all apply the health rules that apply to the brain functions as to our physical health. We must also reduce the negatives. We must avoid all avenues, conditions or chemicals that are suspect causes of damage or that exacerbate any physical or mental symptom.
Take a look at the factors believed to be unnatural causes of the break down in faculties - poor quality foods, chemicals in food, aluminium cooking vessels, fluoride in the water, plastics invading our bloodstreams, pollution in the air, noise levels damaging brain and nerves, lack of mental exercise through addiction to TV, mobile phones and other subjection to radiation, drugs that alter brain chemistry, and a general breakdown in the finest principles, ethics, morals and practices of our culture.
So what can we do? we are very much on our own and responsible for the health of our own brain and body. We must rely upon our natural health disciplines and exercise routines for both brain and body if we wish not only for physical fitness but mental fitness also so we can enjoy all the days of our lives.
We must realize the limitations of human science and aim to return to Nature as the Intelligence that shows us the way not only to health in youth, but in our happy old age.
Aromatherapy or the science of Osmics is proving immensely popular when applied in self help or in professional healing. It is a delightful way to employ natural perfumes to assist mood and mind states and is particularly helpful as an adjunct to relaxation techniques and stress relief. Sally Wilson is an expert in aromatics and author of one of the earliest publications on the subject, directing its use in incense and in healing and has utilized the subtle benefits in her naturopathic practice over many years.
More details at associated sites....
http://www.essence-of-yoga.net
http://www.breathing-fragrance.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sally_Wilson
Most of us as we get older display some of the following irregularities in memory and behaviour as we become swamped with information and activities. We need quiet reflection and meditation to allow time to assimilate all the knowledge and experiences of daily life. Those who recognize this need and practise this, are less likely to develop serious problems.
However, western lifestyles result in increasing numbers of cases of what is now known as Alzheimer's disease evidencing many symptoms of brain dysfunction and unreliable function of faculties. The following states are generally considered as important in early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. It should be remembered that to this point there is no guarantee of modern medicine that any proposed treatment will provide relief, let alone a cure.
Considered as one of the most common signs of Alzheimer's, especially in the early stages, is forgetfulness which hardly needs description as most of us suffer mild memory lapses. However should minor signs such as forgetting names, dates or events, or mislaying articles begin to include major incidents, with potentially dangerous ramifications, these memory lapses become a more serious problem to the individual and to those around him.
When our sense of independence decreases or when our reliance upon other family members or friends increases markedly is not good, particularly if associated with our general state of reduced sense of personal responsibility or self esteem.
Tasks that involve planning or solving problems such as payment of bills can become challenges in those inclined towards Alzheimer's disease.
Together with increasing age is a natural reduction in physical abilities and skills with subsequent tendency to a reduced sense of self worth. There is then a need for psychological readjustment and realization that emotional and intellectual skills need not be affected, and may even increase with age and wisdom.
Reluctance to take on new projects or interests is sometimes an indication of lack of mental health and vitality and can be taken as a symptom of Alzheimer's in some cases.
Incompletion of tasks is regarded as a symptom. Difficulty in completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure - because of lack of concentration is easy to understand when other interests attract greater attention. Effort to maintain the faculty of concentration is imperative and becomes easier if one can "live here and now" - in the moment.
Inability to master settings and functions of microwave, TV, or electronic equipment is regarded as a symptom of inadequate or abnormal faculties. But of course this indication must be modified according to the degree of earlier education received. Many older people have not been tutored how to use the vastly increasing number of technological gadgets used today. Some people consciously choose to avoid their use.
Confusion with time or place. People with Alzheimer's are known to lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. In some advanced conditions they may forget where they are or how they got there. Many patients are 'wanderers'.
Many irregularities in physical and mental health states can naturally occur when we are not vital and active. But severe development of distorted perceptions including visual and spatial relationships, or judging distance colours or contrasts, to some researchers confirms Alzheimer's.
Difficulty in following conversations and an inclination to repeat themselves is obvious to others but a person developing Alzheimer's often is unaware. Struggling with vocabulary to find the right word or remember a name, sometimes offering inventive alternatives such as calling a watch a 'hand-clock', for instance. Friends in the older age groups will often laugh about this shared difficulty. When extreme it is seen as an important symptom.
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps. A person with Alzheimer's disease may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. They may misplace things from time to time, such as a pair of glasses or the remote control. But entirely inappropriate placement of articles is now observed as an indication of a serious development of a brain symptom.
Decreased or poor judgment and decision-making seems to focus a need for medical attention. A common example can be displayed with money, with gambling or when unreasonable amounts of money are given to modern telemarketers.
One of the most embarrassing symptoms of advanced cases of Alzheimer's we have all witnessed at some time with those who pay diminishing attention to personal hygiene and grooming. So we should all be keen to 'look after ourselves'!
A degree of withdrawal social activities or from work situations is normal but Alzheimer's may cause a person to even cease hobbies, social contacts, work projects or sports and if this is the case, a patient's welfare becomes a real concern.
Extreme changes in mood and personality are apt to display negative states and behaviour such as confusion, suspicion, depression, or unreasonable anxiety, often becoming irritable or anxious when a routine is disrupted.
When considering what increasing age can do to our bodies, the changes are obvious. Most of us would make some effort to stall the natural diminution of muscle strength and skin tone that occurs. Similar changes in our mental structure are to be anticipated and these we must also make some effort to deter.
Medical research into Alzheimer's is considerable. Many drugs are being researched to counter the symptoms of the condition. Many scientists are seeking for causes as well as cures. These activities have only recently been occurring over the last several decades. There are no satisfactory answers given out as yet. There are no guiding suggestions to help reduce the disease rate in the community.
Body and brain are inter-related so common sense tells us in the meantime that we must all apply the health rules that apply to the brain functions as to our physical health. We must also reduce the negatives. We must avoid all avenues, conditions or chemicals that are suspect causes of damage or that exacerbate any physical or mental symptom.
Take a look at the factors believed to be unnatural causes of the break down in faculties - poor quality foods, chemicals in food, aluminium cooking vessels, fluoride in the water, plastics invading our bloodstreams, pollution in the air, noise levels damaging brain and nerves, lack of mental exercise through addiction to TV, mobile phones and other subjection to radiation, drugs that alter brain chemistry, and a general breakdown in the finest principles, ethics, morals and practices of our culture.
So what can we do? we are very much on our own and responsible for the health of our own brain and body. We must rely upon our natural health disciplines and exercise routines for both brain and body if we wish not only for physical fitness but mental fitness also so we can enjoy all the days of our lives.
We must realize the limitations of human science and aim to return to Nature as the Intelligence that shows us the way not only to health in youth, but in our happy old age.
Aromatherapy or the science of Osmics is proving immensely popular when applied in self help or in professional healing. It is a delightful way to employ natural perfumes to assist mood and mind states and is particularly helpful as an adjunct to relaxation techniques and stress relief. Sally Wilson is an expert in aromatics and author of one of the earliest publications on the subject, directing its use in incense and in healing and has utilized the subtle benefits in her naturopathic practice over many years.
More details at associated sites....
http://www.essence-of-yoga.net
http://www.breathing-fragrance.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sally_Wilson
The Plain Truth About Alzheimer's Disease
You have a loved one who's showing signs of memory loss and you're concerned that it might be Alzheimer's disease. Of course, it's important that you talk to your doctor as soon as your loved one starts to show signs of memory loss or dementia.
And even though you may be fearing the worst...that it's Alzheimer's disease...there are any number of less serious reasons why someone might be experiencing memory loss or dementia. Not all of them are related to Alzheimer's...but some of them have very similar symptoms.
In either case, once diagnosed you start to worry about what your next steps should be. You don't know exactly what to do but you do know that you want to provide your loved one with the best possible care. And then you begin to realize the potential cost of caring for someone with a disease that can last for 10 or even 20 years. Can you lose everything to Alzheimer's?
Bear Up, Plan Ahead
So, you've locked down the medical side of things. Now, it's time for you to take crucial steps on the legal and financial side of things. That's because the cost of care for someone with Alzheimer's is incredibly expensive. Studies show that the cost of care in South Florida averages more than $174,000 for an Alzheimer's patient over his or her lifetime.
And while that may sound outrageous...when you consider the cost of adult daycare at $50 per day, the cost for an Alzheimer's Assisted Living or Memory Care community in surrounding areas averages at least $3,000 per month...or that the cost of a South Florida Alzheimer's Nursing Home is typically more than $6,500 per month, you quickly realize that the $174,000 lifetime figure may be low!
Fortunately, there are often programs available to help you, which you should consider immediately. The first step is to consult with a board certified elder law attorney who understands the disease, works with Alzheimer's clients and knows the ins and outs of these programs.
Be Informed! Information is Power It's critical that you and your loved ones have a chance to put the proper planning in place while there is still time. When Alzheimer's or memory loss is part of the equation, unless their wishes have been put down in writing, then the law may say you have no legal merit to act on their behalf.
The law in Florida states the Alzheimer's patient must have the legal capacity (i.e. the ability to understand) the planning steps that are being put into place on their behalf. That's why once diagnosed, the family of an Alzheimer's sufferer needs to act in a timely fashion: while the Alzheimer's patient can participate in the planning. The longer you wait, the greater the risk becomes for a Guardianship proceeding which means court and cost!
Advance Directives are a suite of legal documents that once executed, can put a trusted family member(s) in a position to act and make decisions on the behalf of the mentally incapacitated patient. These documents, if executed well, hold water for legal, financial and healthcare related situations.
Act Now! With Alzheimer's There May Be No Time Like the Present Making informed decisions may become difficult or even impossible over time. The longer you wait, the greater the risk becomes. But with proper planning, you will ensure that you've taken the best steps possible to protect your loved ones and your family's financial security. With Alzheimer's that means retaining an experienced, board certified elder law attorney who will have your loved one's best interests at heart.
Alice Reiter Feld, PA, BCS, CELA
Alice Reiter Feld, P.A., BCS, CELA is a Board-Certified Elder Law Attorney by The Florida Bar and The National Elder Law Foundation. She is AV-Rated, the highest rating afforded to attorneys. With over 25 years' experience, Alice recognizes the proliferation and non-discriminate nature of Alzheimer's disease which affects Americans, both young and old. That's why her firm has made a significant investment in extending, FREE of charge, the best materials and resources that address the unique needs of the caregivers for Alzheimer's patients: http://www.southfloridamemorylawyer.com. She is sought-after to address community and professional organizations as a staunch advocate for Alzheimer's awareness. If you are interested in inviting Alice Reiter to speak to your group or organization please forward your request to: info@florida-elderlaw.com or call: 954.726.6602.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alice_Reiter_Feld
And even though you may be fearing the worst...that it's Alzheimer's disease...there are any number of less serious reasons why someone might be experiencing memory loss or dementia. Not all of them are related to Alzheimer's...but some of them have very similar symptoms.
In either case, once diagnosed you start to worry about what your next steps should be. You don't know exactly what to do but you do know that you want to provide your loved one with the best possible care. And then you begin to realize the potential cost of caring for someone with a disease that can last for 10 or even 20 years. Can you lose everything to Alzheimer's?
Bear Up, Plan Ahead
So, you've locked down the medical side of things. Now, it's time for you to take crucial steps on the legal and financial side of things. That's because the cost of care for someone with Alzheimer's is incredibly expensive. Studies show that the cost of care in South Florida averages more than $174,000 for an Alzheimer's patient over his or her lifetime.
And while that may sound outrageous...when you consider the cost of adult daycare at $50 per day, the cost for an Alzheimer's Assisted Living or Memory Care community in surrounding areas averages at least $3,000 per month...or that the cost of a South Florida Alzheimer's Nursing Home is typically more than $6,500 per month, you quickly realize that the $174,000 lifetime figure may be low!
Fortunately, there are often programs available to help you, which you should consider immediately. The first step is to consult with a board certified elder law attorney who understands the disease, works with Alzheimer's clients and knows the ins and outs of these programs.
Be Informed! Information is Power It's critical that you and your loved ones have a chance to put the proper planning in place while there is still time. When Alzheimer's or memory loss is part of the equation, unless their wishes have been put down in writing, then the law may say you have no legal merit to act on their behalf.
The law in Florida states the Alzheimer's patient must have the legal capacity (i.e. the ability to understand) the planning steps that are being put into place on their behalf. That's why once diagnosed, the family of an Alzheimer's sufferer needs to act in a timely fashion: while the Alzheimer's patient can participate in the planning. The longer you wait, the greater the risk becomes for a Guardianship proceeding which means court and cost!
Advance Directives are a suite of legal documents that once executed, can put a trusted family member(s) in a position to act and make decisions on the behalf of the mentally incapacitated patient. These documents, if executed well, hold water for legal, financial and healthcare related situations.
Act Now! With Alzheimer's There May Be No Time Like the Present Making informed decisions may become difficult or even impossible over time. The longer you wait, the greater the risk becomes. But with proper planning, you will ensure that you've taken the best steps possible to protect your loved ones and your family's financial security. With Alzheimer's that means retaining an experienced, board certified elder law attorney who will have your loved one's best interests at heart.
Alice Reiter Feld, PA, BCS, CELA
Alice Reiter Feld, P.A., BCS, CELA is a Board-Certified Elder Law Attorney by The Florida Bar and The National Elder Law Foundation. She is AV-Rated, the highest rating afforded to attorneys. With over 25 years' experience, Alice recognizes the proliferation and non-discriminate nature of Alzheimer's disease which affects Americans, both young and old. That's why her firm has made a significant investment in extending, FREE of charge, the best materials and resources that address the unique needs of the caregivers for Alzheimer's patients: http://www.southfloridamemorylawyer.com. She is sought-after to address community and professional organizations as a staunch advocate for Alzheimer's awareness. If you are interested in inviting Alice Reiter to speak to your group or organization please forward your request to: info@florida-elderlaw.com or call: 954.726.6602.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alice_Reiter_Feld
The Benefits Of Alternative Medicine For Alzheimer's Disease
Recent medical research suggests that the use of medical marijuana could play a significant role in reducing the progression of the dreaded Alzheimer's disease. Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC that is its primary ingredient reduces and prevents the formation of neural protein deposits deep within the brain. These deposits are primarily responsible for this degenerative neural condition. Medical cannabis that is supplied supplied by medical marijuana dispensaries control the formation of these protein deposits or sticky amyloid plaques that result in neuronal damage, inhibits memory and cognition, cause severe loss of memory, and lead to confusion, irritability, mood swings, spatial disorientation, and speech problems.
The progressive and fatal Alzheimer's disease destroys brain cells, which results in loss of memory, dementia, and disturbed motor skills along with diminished intellect and social skills. Alzheimer's disease is among the top ten causes of death in the elderly in the united States. Research indicates that medical cannabis represents an effective drug treatment for Alzheimer's disease and some of its symptoms.
While Medical Marijuana (MMJ) is legal in some cities of the United States, it is mandatory that all MMJ card holders obtain Medical Cannabis at legal the dispensary. A MMJ dispensary can also guide a patient in the process of obtaining their medical marijuana card.
Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative condition that is marked by a continuous decline in memory and intellectual facility. It is incurable and terminal and usually affects people over 65 years of age. MMJ reduces the production of the neural enzyme acetylcholinesterase that triggers the formation of harmful protein deposits in the brain and lowers the level of the important neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.
While alcohol, heroin, cocaine and nicotine suppress and inhibit the growth of new brain cells, recent clinical studies by the San Diego based Scripps Research shows that marijuana promotes the growth of neurons. It is this property that strongly supports its medicinal use along with controlled and monitored distribution through various medical marijuana dispensaries.
There are a number of prescription drugs too that are known to stifle the growth of new brain cells. Apart from doing exactly the opposite, medical cannabis from the dispensaries decreases the growth of tumors and inflammation in clinical trials conducted on nearly 50% of patients afflicted with lung cancer. Patients find immense relief from their symptoms of Alzheimer's through a licensed dispensary that supplies them with optimal doses of Medical Marijuana to cope with their symptoms.
Discover the benefits of medical cannabis at the Blog of Denver, CO Medical Marijuana Dispensary Kind Love. Get answers to your Medical Marijuana questions from a MMJ expert at the Marijuana Dispensary Kind Love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mercy_M._James
The progressive and fatal Alzheimer's disease destroys brain cells, which results in loss of memory, dementia, and disturbed motor skills along with diminished intellect and social skills. Alzheimer's disease is among the top ten causes of death in the elderly in the united States. Research indicates that medical cannabis represents an effective drug treatment for Alzheimer's disease and some of its symptoms.
While Medical Marijuana (MMJ) is legal in some cities of the United States, it is mandatory that all MMJ card holders obtain Medical Cannabis at legal the dispensary. A MMJ dispensary can also guide a patient in the process of obtaining their medical marijuana card.
Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative condition that is marked by a continuous decline in memory and intellectual facility. It is incurable and terminal and usually affects people over 65 years of age. MMJ reduces the production of the neural enzyme acetylcholinesterase that triggers the formation of harmful protein deposits in the brain and lowers the level of the important neurotransmitter called acetylcholine.
While alcohol, heroin, cocaine and nicotine suppress and inhibit the growth of new brain cells, recent clinical studies by the San Diego based Scripps Research shows that marijuana promotes the growth of neurons. It is this property that strongly supports its medicinal use along with controlled and monitored distribution through various medical marijuana dispensaries.
There are a number of prescription drugs too that are known to stifle the growth of new brain cells. Apart from doing exactly the opposite, medical cannabis from the dispensaries decreases the growth of tumors and inflammation in clinical trials conducted on nearly 50% of patients afflicted with lung cancer. Patients find immense relief from their symptoms of Alzheimer's through a licensed dispensary that supplies them with optimal doses of Medical Marijuana to cope with their symptoms.
Discover the benefits of medical cannabis at the Blog of Denver, CO Medical Marijuana Dispensary Kind Love. Get answers to your Medical Marijuana questions from a MMJ expert at the Marijuana Dispensary Kind Love.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mercy_M._James
10 Early Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
The Alzheimer's disease - most common form of 'dementia' is also known as SDAT (senile dementia of the Alzheimer type), PDDAT (primary degenerative dementia of the Alzheimer's type). This disease is degenerative, incurable, and fatal. Alzheimer disease was initially described by a German neuropathologist and psychiatrist in 1906 named Alois Alzheimer, and so is named after him. On an average scale, this disease is found to be diagnosed in the people over 60 years of age (American Journal of Public health - September 1998) and by 2006, there were 26.6 million sufferers found all over the globe, and this ratio is projected to be affecting 1 out of every 85 people globally, by 2050. (Worldwide population prospects - United Nations 2007).
Alzheimer disease, as aforementioned is chronic which eventually leads to death. As the disease burgeons, symptoms like aggression, irritability, and confusions are seen leading to swinging of mood, language break down and long term memory loss; gradually the complete functioning of the body is lost. The disease develops for an imprecise period of time before it becomes completely apparent and in many cases it progresses being remain undiagnosed for years and once the disease is diagnosed, lesser than the 3 percent of individuals survive more than 14 years after the Alzheimer's diagnose (long term survival and predictors of mortality in Alzheimer's disease and multi infarct dementia - UK March 1995).
According to the Alzheimer's association (the leading researchers and supporters of the Alzheimer disease), the common cause of dementia is the Alzheimer's disease. To nurture the statement, it is said that the memory loss which interrupts an individual's every day life is not always a symptom of aging but instead is dementia - eventually leading to long term memory loss and decline of reasoning and thinking skills. So to cater the pertinent cause in its initial stage, the Alzheimer's association has developed a checklist of the early ten symptoms which occur commonly and help out in establishing the notion and the warning signs of the Alzheimer's disease respectively;
1. Memory Loss:
The forgetfulness - defined as the forgetting the most recent incidents and the learned information. It advances in forgetting the most important past dates, events, or even the names. In addition to it, prompting for any specific information again and again and relying on certain aids to help one' self out (like reminder notes etc) or other family members for those things which were handled all by ones own self before. But what is considered normal is to forget names and appointments on occasional basis.
2. Difficulty in task performance
People at an early stage of AD find difficulty in planning and carrying out the daily tasks which were even familiar to them. To be more specific, individuals may forget the steps involved in preparing a meat, playing a game, or placing a phone call etc. however it is normal to occasionally forget what you were to do / plan when you enter your room.
3. Language problem
Individuals with early dementia find difficulty in speaking simple words and they often tend to substitute them with difficult ones - making it harder for others to understand. People, for example, may forget the word 'spoon' and asking in the way "where is that thing with which I eat sometimes?" however what is normal, is to be unable to find the right word sometimes.
4. Confusion
Loosing track of dates, passage of time, and the seasons - and even in some cases, the individuals tend to be at trouble in understanding something if it is not immediately happening. Sometimes they even can forget where they are and what are they doing. They can become disoriented with their neighborhood too.
5. Misplacement of things
An individual may misplace certain usual things at unusual places like misplacing iron in freezer, egg in the draw etc. however misplacing of keys in wallets temporarily is normal.
6. Poor Judgment
The sufferer may dress inappropriately in summer, wearing several warm layers and contrary in winter.
7. Change in personality
The dramatic change in personality of the individuals in early dementia is seen; confused, suspicious, fearful and mentally dependent on other family members.
8. Losing initiative
The individual with the early Alzheimer disease may become passive in front of TV, sitting for hours, and sleeping more than usual period.
9. Problems with abstract thinking
The individuals at early stages have reported to find difficulty in managing complex mental tasks; forgetting numbers series and their usage etc.
10. Mood swings
In addition to changes in personality of the early stage sufferer, the sudden mood swings are also reported - from ultra calm to immediate ferociousness, from tears to anger etc. and without any apparent reason.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Omer_Javaid
Alzheimer disease, as aforementioned is chronic which eventually leads to death. As the disease burgeons, symptoms like aggression, irritability, and confusions are seen leading to swinging of mood, language break down and long term memory loss; gradually the complete functioning of the body is lost. The disease develops for an imprecise period of time before it becomes completely apparent and in many cases it progresses being remain undiagnosed for years and once the disease is diagnosed, lesser than the 3 percent of individuals survive more than 14 years after the Alzheimer's diagnose (long term survival and predictors of mortality in Alzheimer's disease and multi infarct dementia - UK March 1995).
According to the Alzheimer's association (the leading researchers and supporters of the Alzheimer disease), the common cause of dementia is the Alzheimer's disease. To nurture the statement, it is said that the memory loss which interrupts an individual's every day life is not always a symptom of aging but instead is dementia - eventually leading to long term memory loss and decline of reasoning and thinking skills. So to cater the pertinent cause in its initial stage, the Alzheimer's association has developed a checklist of the early ten symptoms which occur commonly and help out in establishing the notion and the warning signs of the Alzheimer's disease respectively;
1. Memory Loss:
The forgetfulness - defined as the forgetting the most recent incidents and the learned information. It advances in forgetting the most important past dates, events, or even the names. In addition to it, prompting for any specific information again and again and relying on certain aids to help one' self out (like reminder notes etc) or other family members for those things which were handled all by ones own self before. But what is considered normal is to forget names and appointments on occasional basis.
2. Difficulty in task performance
People at an early stage of AD find difficulty in planning and carrying out the daily tasks which were even familiar to them. To be more specific, individuals may forget the steps involved in preparing a meat, playing a game, or placing a phone call etc. however it is normal to occasionally forget what you were to do / plan when you enter your room.
3. Language problem
Individuals with early dementia find difficulty in speaking simple words and they often tend to substitute them with difficult ones - making it harder for others to understand. People, for example, may forget the word 'spoon' and asking in the way "where is that thing with which I eat sometimes?" however what is normal, is to be unable to find the right word sometimes.
4. Confusion
Loosing track of dates, passage of time, and the seasons - and even in some cases, the individuals tend to be at trouble in understanding something if it is not immediately happening. Sometimes they even can forget where they are and what are they doing. They can become disoriented with their neighborhood too.
5. Misplacement of things
An individual may misplace certain usual things at unusual places like misplacing iron in freezer, egg in the draw etc. however misplacing of keys in wallets temporarily is normal.
6. Poor Judgment
The sufferer may dress inappropriately in summer, wearing several warm layers and contrary in winter.
7. Change in personality
The dramatic change in personality of the individuals in early dementia is seen; confused, suspicious, fearful and mentally dependent on other family members.
8. Losing initiative
The individual with the early Alzheimer disease may become passive in front of TV, sitting for hours, and sleeping more than usual period.
9. Problems with abstract thinking
The individuals at early stages have reported to find difficulty in managing complex mental tasks; forgetting numbers series and their usage etc.
10. Mood swings
In addition to changes in personality of the early stage sufferer, the sudden mood swings are also reported - from ultra calm to immediate ferociousness, from tears to anger etc. and without any apparent reason.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Omer_Javaid
Diagnosing Alzheimer's: Learning About The Disease
First identified more than 100 years ago, Alzheimer's disease research has actually only become more popular in the last 30 years. The cause for the disease is still unknown. Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
Different people are affected in different ways. Commonly, a worsening ability to remember new information starts happening. This is due to brain cell functionality breaking down: the breakdown happens in the region where new information is stored. The more the cells break down, the more the symptoms can be identified. Here's a list of warning signs:
• Memory loss that affects everyday life
• Challenges in planning or solving problems
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure
• Confusion with time or place
• Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
• New problems with words in speaking or writing
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
• Decreased or poor judgment
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Changes in mood and personality
The progression from mild symptoms to moderate to severe disease is different for individuals. In advanced Alzheimer's, people need help with basic activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, using the bathroom and eating. Those in the final stages of the disease lose their ability to communicate, fail to recognize loved ones and become bed-bound and reliant on around-the-clock care.
In those final stages, when a patient isn't able to move around, they can become susceptible to infections. Alzheimer's disease is a fatal disease, and it's often from infections like pneumonia that a person passes away.
Most families want to keep their loved one at home to care for them as long as possible. Most people eventually do need to move into a nursing home or residential care where they can receive constant attention as needed, around-the-clock, to have their health professionally cared for.
Getting a Diagnosis
Diagnosing Alzheimer's disease is most often done by a family physician. The physician will gather medical and family histories, including psychiatric, cognitive and behavioral changes. Physical and neurological exams will be conducted, and sometimes an MRI is performed to identify brain changes.
Causes of Alzheimer's
The causes of Alzheimer's are unknown. Scientists do know that what happens is that the neurons in a person's brain start failing to send messages to one another. As the neurons start failing, the nutrients and other essential molecules are blocked from being transported throughout the cell. This is believed to contribute to cell death. Brains that have been studied after advanced Alzheimer's has settled in show shrinkage from cell loss and widespread debris from dead and dying neurons.
The greatest risk factor for the disease is aging, but this isn't a normal part of aging. Most people affected by Alzheimer's are age 65 and older. Family history also seems to play a roll, as individuals with a parent, brother or sister with Alzheimer's are more likely to develop it themselves.
Moderate and severe head trauma, head injury and traumatic brain injury are associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. If the head injury results in loss of consciousness or post-traumatic amnesia lasting more than 30 minutes, the injury is considered moderate; if either of these lasts more than 24 hours, the injury is considered severe.
Treatment
At this time, there is no treatment available to stop the deterioration of brain cells in Alzheimer's disease. There have been five drugs so far that have been approved to slow the process of the dying cells for 6 to 12 months. They seem to work in some but not all cases. Approximately 75 to 100 experimental therapies aimed at slowing or stopping the progression of Alzheimer's are in clinical testing in human volunteers. Despite the current lack of disease-modifying therapies, studies have consistently shown that active medical management of Alzheimer's and other dementia can significantly improve quality of life through all stages of the disease for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.
Submitted by Mark Halteman of ALZanswer.com. Mark works with and supports individuals and families living with Alzheimer's disease. He understands the delicate moments and stress that can fill every moment when a loved one has Alzheimer's. His website offers interviews, articles and help for people going through this experience. You can find out more by visiting [http://alzanswer.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Halteman
Different people are affected in different ways. Commonly, a worsening ability to remember new information starts happening. This is due to brain cell functionality breaking down: the breakdown happens in the region where new information is stored. The more the cells break down, the more the symptoms can be identified. Here's a list of warning signs:
• Memory loss that affects everyday life
• Challenges in planning or solving problems
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure
• Confusion with time or place
• Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
• New problems with words in speaking or writing
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
• Decreased or poor judgment
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Changes in mood and personality
The progression from mild symptoms to moderate to severe disease is different for individuals. In advanced Alzheimer's, people need help with basic activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, using the bathroom and eating. Those in the final stages of the disease lose their ability to communicate, fail to recognize loved ones and become bed-bound and reliant on around-the-clock care.
In those final stages, when a patient isn't able to move around, they can become susceptible to infections. Alzheimer's disease is a fatal disease, and it's often from infections like pneumonia that a person passes away.
Most families want to keep their loved one at home to care for them as long as possible. Most people eventually do need to move into a nursing home or residential care where they can receive constant attention as needed, around-the-clock, to have their health professionally cared for.
Getting a Diagnosis
Diagnosing Alzheimer's disease is most often done by a family physician. The physician will gather medical and family histories, including psychiatric, cognitive and behavioral changes. Physical and neurological exams will be conducted, and sometimes an MRI is performed to identify brain changes.
Causes of Alzheimer's
The causes of Alzheimer's are unknown. Scientists do know that what happens is that the neurons in a person's brain start failing to send messages to one another. As the neurons start failing, the nutrients and other essential molecules are blocked from being transported throughout the cell. This is believed to contribute to cell death. Brains that have been studied after advanced Alzheimer's has settled in show shrinkage from cell loss and widespread debris from dead and dying neurons.
The greatest risk factor for the disease is aging, but this isn't a normal part of aging. Most people affected by Alzheimer's are age 65 and older. Family history also seems to play a roll, as individuals with a parent, brother or sister with Alzheimer's are more likely to develop it themselves.
Moderate and severe head trauma, head injury and traumatic brain injury are associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. If the head injury results in loss of consciousness or post-traumatic amnesia lasting more than 30 minutes, the injury is considered moderate; if either of these lasts more than 24 hours, the injury is considered severe.
Treatment
At this time, there is no treatment available to stop the deterioration of brain cells in Alzheimer's disease. There have been five drugs so far that have been approved to slow the process of the dying cells for 6 to 12 months. They seem to work in some but not all cases. Approximately 75 to 100 experimental therapies aimed at slowing or stopping the progression of Alzheimer's are in clinical testing in human volunteers. Despite the current lack of disease-modifying therapies, studies have consistently shown that active medical management of Alzheimer's and other dementia can significantly improve quality of life through all stages of the disease for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.
Submitted by Mark Halteman of ALZanswer.com. Mark works with and supports individuals and families living with Alzheimer's disease. He understands the delicate moments and stress that can fill every moment when a loved one has Alzheimer's. His website offers interviews, articles and help for people going through this experience. You can find out more by visiting [http://alzanswer.com]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Halteman
Poetry As a Means to Negotiate Alzheimer's and Other Dementia Related Diseases
Book Review:
Kakugawa, Frances H. Breaking the Silence: A Caregiver's Voice. Nevada City, California: Willow Valley Press, 2010.
Despite striking achievements of science and technology, the problems of human life and destiny have not ended, nor have the solutions been seriously affected by scientific knowledge. Alzheimer's disease, which currently affects about 10% of people over 65 years of age and 50% of those over 85 years of age, has no cure. As many as 5.3 million Americans are now living with the devastating disease. According to a study, unless new treatments are developed to decrease the likelihood of Alzheimer's disease, the number of individuals with Alzheimer's disease in the USA may rise to 14 million by the end of the year 2050.
Read against this background, Frances Kakugawa's book, a mix of poetry, story and practical guide, is a recognition of the services rendered by professional and voluntary organizations that seek to minimize the pangs of Alzheimer's sufferers as well as the sufferings of their near and dear ones. It pays tribute to caregivers who have been untiringly working for creation of a world without dementia, stroke, or cancer just as it seeks to help them endure the innumerable crises of caregiving.
Breaking the Silence: A Caregiver's Voice merges Frances Kakugawa and her poet-colleagues' varied experiences with a broad human perspective, engaging both mind and heart. The caregivers seek to share their compassionate spirit with a sense of gratitude to all those who help the victims of Alzheimer's disease negotiate their mentally vacant existence. They are not only aware of the sufferers' substantial loss of brain cells or progressive decline in their ability to think, remember, reason, and imagine, or their language problems and unpredictable behavior, confusion, or loss of sensory processing, but they also know well how the Alzheimer's victims suffer a sort of living death, becoming a mere body stripped of its humanity. They have been witness to caregiving family members of increasingly confused and helpless sufferers themselves often becoming the disease's exasperated and exhausted victims:
" Is she the mom who nurtured me?
Is it the dementia playing havoc with my mind?
Or is this really my mom? I don't know."
('More Glimpses of a Daughter and Mother')
and
"I am torn between two needy factions.
Mom unaware, daughter pushing all boundaries
Both out of control."
('The Sandwich')
For Frances Kakugawa, caregiving is a mission even as the memory and image of her Alzheimer's struck mother persists in her life as a "loud presence". She gives voice to many caregivers who are ever worried about their loved ones not even able to carry out the simplest tasks and/or are completely dependent on others for their care. She expresses the very haunting fear of death:
"Is she breathing? Is she alive?
Is she finally gone, freeing me once again?
I continue my sentinel watch."
('Unspoken Mornings')
Frances not only articulates their fear but also learns to negotiate it by boldly facing it as part of life. In fact, she turns the metaphor of death as integral to life, be it in the form of "an ache of emptiness", "unfulfilled dreams", or "unlived moments". In her deeper silences, she explores the very meaning of life:
"A second gust of wind
Lifts another fistful of ashes.
Be still and listen."
('Song of the Wind')
It is hearing the inner silence, which is something meditative, Biblical, and spiritual. It is awaking to the self, the Holy Spirit, the Divine himself. When the soul peaks into silence, human becomes divine. She sounds earnest and exceptional, seeking harmony with the highest ideals, irrespective of chaotic personal experiences. As Setsuko Yoshida says in 'Can I?':
"Poems by Frances this morning
Reveal the feelings of 'divine'
In caregiving."
In fact, as women poets, Frances Kakugawa and her caregiver colleagues (Elaine Okazaki, Linda McCall Nagata, Eugene Mitchell, and others) present a feminine and yet very humane perspective to the dementia-related illnesses. Jason Y. Kimura, Rod Masumoto, and Red Silver, though male poets, demonstrate the 'Prakriti' or 'Yin' aspects in rhythm with other contributing caregivers' sensibility. They variously turn the Alzheimer's into a metaphor for the loss of language, the loss of memory, and the loss of voice. Their poetry, often brief and personal, and rich and insightful, becomes a means to communicate the sufferers' loss of feeling, love, dignity, honor, name, and relationship; in short, their isolation, or threat to living itself:
"All my life I have lived
With crayons in one hand,
Filling in spaces,
Spaces left by departed lovers, family, friends,
Leaving me crayons smashed against walls
Creating more grief than art."
('Empty Spaces')
They also use the metaphor for challenge to survive, to exist, without fears and anxieties:
"I am woman,
Suppressed,
Dying."
('Nissei Woman')
and
"I am not merely heaven, man and earth
Rooted by cultural hands.
Sift those sands. Yes!
I am free!
I am tossed into the winds.
I shed my kimonos.
I spread my legs.
I am free."
('Lesson #3')
and
"When I am 88
I will still be woman,
Yes!"
(''When I am 88')
and
"I am still here
Help me remain a human being
In this shell of a woman I have become.
In my world of silence, I am still here.
Oh, I am still here."
('Emily Dickinson, I am Somebody')
They convert the Alzheimer's into a search for reprogramming the mind, the thought, and the attitude to overcome the irreversible suffering and helplessness. As Frances very feelingly asserts: it is the search for
"...the same umbilical cord
That once set me free
Now pulls and tugs me back
To where I had begun.
There must be hidden
Somewhere a gift very divine
In this journey back."
('Mother Into Child, Child Into Mother')
They are true to themselves as they voice their search for the whole. With an empathetic awareness, they disclose their innate goodness, trust, and compassion to make a "symphony of truth." At the core of their musing lies a desire to integrate themselves, to live in time as well as in eternity:
"What other path is there
Except the divine
Where love, kindness, compassion,
Help me discover little pieces of myself
That make me smile
Bring me such quiet joy
At the end of each day."
('Bless the Divine')
They reveal the working of the primal impulses of the human soul which rises above the differences of race and of geographical position. In short, they give vent to the thought of all people in all lands.
As poet-caregivers they cope with their tensions, fears and anxieties through introspection, and accommodate their inner and outer conflicts, sufferings and celebrations through imaginative insight. They mirror the broad social or familial conditions as well as their own personal state with perceptions that are often different from those of the male poets (or male caregivers). Their quest is for real reality vis-Ã -vis degeneration, privation, insecurity, helplessness, anonymity, and death. They search for life and live with awareness of what lies beneath the skin of things around, the psycho-spiritual strains, the moral dilemmas, the betrayals, and the paradoxes:
"Why do you say I am sacrificing
Good years of my life
For caring for my mother,
When it shouldn't be a secret
That I am really living
In a way I have never lived before?
...
No, this is not sacrifice.
It is just reality.
I am really living
In a way I have never lived before.
I am living love."
('What I Know')
Against the complexities of experiences, they demonstrate a sense of values such as love, faith, truth, tolerance, patience, peace, charity, harmony, humility, and healthy relationships. They tend to think intuitively and/or turn personal, inward, spiritward, or Godward, without indulging in intellectual abstraction. They write with poetic sensibility. Their metaphors and images reflect their inner landscape as much as their responses to what they observe or experience externally. They are often reticent and honest in their verbal expression, and their inner vibrations touch or elevate the readers' senses. As they create discourse of themselves as caregivers, they also sound committed to their home, family, children, motherhood, and neighborhood, often voicing their own vision and understanding which cuts across cultures and regions.
They seek to transcend their body or femininity and respect the woman in themselves, even if affected by the Alzheimer's environment. They turn inside out and reveal what is personal yet universal in their different roles as mother, wife, daughter, and feel the agony of the spirit while trying to know "Who I am?", or "How I should live, who I should be", or "What am I looking for? Why did I come?"
As they look back or reflect their present, they also voice the need for strong sense of togetherness vis-Ã -vis their inner conflicts, spiritual hunger, loneliness, or dependence. They sound challenging the Alzheimer's itself:
"You could not rob us, though we forgot.
You could not erase us, though we could not write.
You could not silence, though we could not speak.
The stories, the laughter, the moments that passed
Into their keep, you could not steal
Into a night of silence."
('Hey Alzheimer's')
As they fill one with hope for ageing with grace and dignity despite the challenges of loss, they create an alternative motive and impulse for social action at a very personal level:
"Through this deepest darkened night
I will hold the light
To take away all your fears.
Just know I will always be near."
('To My Mother')
There is an urge for changing the situation for themselves, or for being in peace with oneself. The poets and caregivers of Breaking the Silence seek to create a new culture as they rationalize how we ought to live in future.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ram_Krishna_Singh
Kakugawa, Frances H. Breaking the Silence: A Caregiver's Voice. Nevada City, California: Willow Valley Press, 2010.
Despite striking achievements of science and technology, the problems of human life and destiny have not ended, nor have the solutions been seriously affected by scientific knowledge. Alzheimer's disease, which currently affects about 10% of people over 65 years of age and 50% of those over 85 years of age, has no cure. As many as 5.3 million Americans are now living with the devastating disease. According to a study, unless new treatments are developed to decrease the likelihood of Alzheimer's disease, the number of individuals with Alzheimer's disease in the USA may rise to 14 million by the end of the year 2050.
Read against this background, Frances Kakugawa's book, a mix of poetry, story and practical guide, is a recognition of the services rendered by professional and voluntary organizations that seek to minimize the pangs of Alzheimer's sufferers as well as the sufferings of their near and dear ones. It pays tribute to caregivers who have been untiringly working for creation of a world without dementia, stroke, or cancer just as it seeks to help them endure the innumerable crises of caregiving.
Breaking the Silence: A Caregiver's Voice merges Frances Kakugawa and her poet-colleagues' varied experiences with a broad human perspective, engaging both mind and heart. The caregivers seek to share their compassionate spirit with a sense of gratitude to all those who help the victims of Alzheimer's disease negotiate their mentally vacant existence. They are not only aware of the sufferers' substantial loss of brain cells or progressive decline in their ability to think, remember, reason, and imagine, or their language problems and unpredictable behavior, confusion, or loss of sensory processing, but they also know well how the Alzheimer's victims suffer a sort of living death, becoming a mere body stripped of its humanity. They have been witness to caregiving family members of increasingly confused and helpless sufferers themselves often becoming the disease's exasperated and exhausted victims:
" Is she the mom who nurtured me?
Is it the dementia playing havoc with my mind?
Or is this really my mom? I don't know."
('More Glimpses of a Daughter and Mother')
and
"I am torn between two needy factions.
Mom unaware, daughter pushing all boundaries
Both out of control."
('The Sandwich')
For Frances Kakugawa, caregiving is a mission even as the memory and image of her Alzheimer's struck mother persists in her life as a "loud presence". She gives voice to many caregivers who are ever worried about their loved ones not even able to carry out the simplest tasks and/or are completely dependent on others for their care. She expresses the very haunting fear of death:
"Is she breathing? Is she alive?
Is she finally gone, freeing me once again?
I continue my sentinel watch."
('Unspoken Mornings')
Frances not only articulates their fear but also learns to negotiate it by boldly facing it as part of life. In fact, she turns the metaphor of death as integral to life, be it in the form of "an ache of emptiness", "unfulfilled dreams", or "unlived moments". In her deeper silences, she explores the very meaning of life:
"A second gust of wind
Lifts another fistful of ashes.
Be still and listen."
('Song of the Wind')
It is hearing the inner silence, which is something meditative, Biblical, and spiritual. It is awaking to the self, the Holy Spirit, the Divine himself. When the soul peaks into silence, human becomes divine. She sounds earnest and exceptional, seeking harmony with the highest ideals, irrespective of chaotic personal experiences. As Setsuko Yoshida says in 'Can I?':
"Poems by Frances this morning
Reveal the feelings of 'divine'
In caregiving."
In fact, as women poets, Frances Kakugawa and her caregiver colleagues (Elaine Okazaki, Linda McCall Nagata, Eugene Mitchell, and others) present a feminine and yet very humane perspective to the dementia-related illnesses. Jason Y. Kimura, Rod Masumoto, and Red Silver, though male poets, demonstrate the 'Prakriti' or 'Yin' aspects in rhythm with other contributing caregivers' sensibility. They variously turn the Alzheimer's into a metaphor for the loss of language, the loss of memory, and the loss of voice. Their poetry, often brief and personal, and rich and insightful, becomes a means to communicate the sufferers' loss of feeling, love, dignity, honor, name, and relationship; in short, their isolation, or threat to living itself:
"All my life I have lived
With crayons in one hand,
Filling in spaces,
Spaces left by departed lovers, family, friends,
Leaving me crayons smashed against walls
Creating more grief than art."
('Empty Spaces')
They also use the metaphor for challenge to survive, to exist, without fears and anxieties:
"I am woman,
Suppressed,
Dying."
('Nissei Woman')
and
"I am not merely heaven, man and earth
Rooted by cultural hands.
Sift those sands. Yes!
I am free!
I am tossed into the winds.
I shed my kimonos.
I spread my legs.
I am free."
('Lesson #3')
and
"When I am 88
I will still be woman,
Yes!"
(''When I am 88')
and
"I am still here
Help me remain a human being
In this shell of a woman I have become.
In my world of silence, I am still here.
Oh, I am still here."
('Emily Dickinson, I am Somebody')
They convert the Alzheimer's into a search for reprogramming the mind, the thought, and the attitude to overcome the irreversible suffering and helplessness. As Frances very feelingly asserts: it is the search for
"...the same umbilical cord
That once set me free
Now pulls and tugs me back
To where I had begun.
There must be hidden
Somewhere a gift very divine
In this journey back."
('Mother Into Child, Child Into Mother')
They are true to themselves as they voice their search for the whole. With an empathetic awareness, they disclose their innate goodness, trust, and compassion to make a "symphony of truth." At the core of their musing lies a desire to integrate themselves, to live in time as well as in eternity:
"What other path is there
Except the divine
Where love, kindness, compassion,
Help me discover little pieces of myself
That make me smile
Bring me such quiet joy
At the end of each day."
('Bless the Divine')
They reveal the working of the primal impulses of the human soul which rises above the differences of race and of geographical position. In short, they give vent to the thought of all people in all lands.
As poet-caregivers they cope with their tensions, fears and anxieties through introspection, and accommodate their inner and outer conflicts, sufferings and celebrations through imaginative insight. They mirror the broad social or familial conditions as well as their own personal state with perceptions that are often different from those of the male poets (or male caregivers). Their quest is for real reality vis-Ã -vis degeneration, privation, insecurity, helplessness, anonymity, and death. They search for life and live with awareness of what lies beneath the skin of things around, the psycho-spiritual strains, the moral dilemmas, the betrayals, and the paradoxes:
"Why do you say I am sacrificing
Good years of my life
For caring for my mother,
When it shouldn't be a secret
That I am really living
In a way I have never lived before?
...
No, this is not sacrifice.
It is just reality.
I am really living
In a way I have never lived before.
I am living love."
('What I Know')
Against the complexities of experiences, they demonstrate a sense of values such as love, faith, truth, tolerance, patience, peace, charity, harmony, humility, and healthy relationships. They tend to think intuitively and/or turn personal, inward, spiritward, or Godward, without indulging in intellectual abstraction. They write with poetic sensibility. Their metaphors and images reflect their inner landscape as much as their responses to what they observe or experience externally. They are often reticent and honest in their verbal expression, and their inner vibrations touch or elevate the readers' senses. As they create discourse of themselves as caregivers, they also sound committed to their home, family, children, motherhood, and neighborhood, often voicing their own vision and understanding which cuts across cultures and regions.
They seek to transcend their body or femininity and respect the woman in themselves, even if affected by the Alzheimer's environment. They turn inside out and reveal what is personal yet universal in their different roles as mother, wife, daughter, and feel the agony of the spirit while trying to know "Who I am?", or "How I should live, who I should be", or "What am I looking for? Why did I come?"
As they look back or reflect their present, they also voice the need for strong sense of togetherness vis-Ã -vis their inner conflicts, spiritual hunger, loneliness, or dependence. They sound challenging the Alzheimer's itself:
"You could not rob us, though we forgot.
You could not erase us, though we could not write.
You could not silence, though we could not speak.
The stories, the laughter, the moments that passed
Into their keep, you could not steal
Into a night of silence."
('Hey Alzheimer's')
As they fill one with hope for ageing with grace and dignity despite the challenges of loss, they create an alternative motive and impulse for social action at a very personal level:
"Through this deepest darkened night
I will hold the light
To take away all your fears.
Just know I will always be near."
('To My Mother')
There is an urge for changing the situation for themselves, or for being in peace with oneself. The poets and caregivers of Breaking the Silence seek to create a new culture as they rationalize how we ought to live in future.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ram_Krishna_Singh
Caring For a Loved One Suffering From Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease is one of the most prevalent medical conditions that millions of people across the globe suffer from. People older than 65 years of age are often the most susceptible victims of this medical condition, but there are cases where signs and symptoms of this disorder occur earlier. Understanding facts about Alzheimer's can help families devise a plan to provide the best care for their loved one in the long run.
Alzheimer's disease is triggered by the formation of plaques and tangles within the brain which cause the death of brain cells. Scientific studies show that people who have been diagnosed with this condition suffer from a lack of essential chemicals that are directly involved in the transmission of message from one neurotransmitter to another.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative and neurological disease of the brain which is characterized by a significant loss in intellectual abilities such as reasoning and memory. Alzheimer's disease often incapacitates an individual to perform their social, personal and occupational functions in an efficient manner.
The most common sign and symptom of this condition is the loss of memory especially the short term memory. Forgetfulness about what has occurred recently and mild personality changes can also be observed in people who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. Aggression, agitation, restlessness, wandering and repetitions are some of the most common behavioral symptoms found in victims of Alzheimer's. Furthermore, Alzheimer's patients struggle to recall their past, suffer disorientation about the time and place, have decreased judgment skills and often display reduced organizational skills.
Through the years, children of seniors who suffer from Alzheimer's have struggled to care for their loved ones alone. That is why when family caregivers are no longer able to care for their loved ones by themselves; they turn to professionals for help. Traditionally, assisted living facilities and nursing homes have been the leading choices for elderly suffering from Alzheimer's. This however, has changed in recent times. With research indicating that 8 out of 9 seniors prefer to stay in the comfort of their own home, Home Care Agencies have steadily become the preferred choice for seniors and their families. When family caregivers are no longer able to provide round the clock care due to work or busy schedules, they turn to a professional caregiver.
Caring for a love one is a big responsibility, especially when they are suffering from a condition such as Alzheimer's disease. It is important to understand the facts about Alzheimer's and devise a long term strategy of providing care for a loved one. At some point, family caregivers will have to find professional care for their loved ones. Whether it's assisted living, a nursing home or a home care provider, getting a free assessment is the first step towards finding a long term solution to the care needs of a loved one. Most senior care providers offer a free in home consultations to assess the needs of the seniors and their families. It's vital to make sure the care provider (whether Assisted Living, Nursing home or a Home Care Agency) is licensed, bonded, insured and has a great reputation in the community. After all, you do not want to put your loved one in the hands of an unprofessional company or individual.
San Francisco Home Care Assistance offers custom and flexible hourly and live-in home care plans to families in the Bay Area. We are the live-in specialist. Our Caregivers are professional trained and personally committed. For more information visit our website http://www.homecaresanfrancisco.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Iqbal_Jan
Alzheimer's disease is triggered by the formation of plaques and tangles within the brain which cause the death of brain cells. Scientific studies show that people who have been diagnosed with this condition suffer from a lack of essential chemicals that are directly involved in the transmission of message from one neurotransmitter to another.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative and neurological disease of the brain which is characterized by a significant loss in intellectual abilities such as reasoning and memory. Alzheimer's disease often incapacitates an individual to perform their social, personal and occupational functions in an efficient manner.
The most common sign and symptom of this condition is the loss of memory especially the short term memory. Forgetfulness about what has occurred recently and mild personality changes can also be observed in people who suffer from Alzheimer's disease. Aggression, agitation, restlessness, wandering and repetitions are some of the most common behavioral symptoms found in victims of Alzheimer's. Furthermore, Alzheimer's patients struggle to recall their past, suffer disorientation about the time and place, have decreased judgment skills and often display reduced organizational skills.
Through the years, children of seniors who suffer from Alzheimer's have struggled to care for their loved ones alone. That is why when family caregivers are no longer able to care for their loved ones by themselves; they turn to professionals for help. Traditionally, assisted living facilities and nursing homes have been the leading choices for elderly suffering from Alzheimer's. This however, has changed in recent times. With research indicating that 8 out of 9 seniors prefer to stay in the comfort of their own home, Home Care Agencies have steadily become the preferred choice for seniors and their families. When family caregivers are no longer able to provide round the clock care due to work or busy schedules, they turn to a professional caregiver.
Caring for a love one is a big responsibility, especially when they are suffering from a condition such as Alzheimer's disease. It is important to understand the facts about Alzheimer's and devise a long term strategy of providing care for a loved one. At some point, family caregivers will have to find professional care for their loved ones. Whether it's assisted living, a nursing home or a home care provider, getting a free assessment is the first step towards finding a long term solution to the care needs of a loved one. Most senior care providers offer a free in home consultations to assess the needs of the seniors and their families. It's vital to make sure the care provider (whether Assisted Living, Nursing home or a Home Care Agency) is licensed, bonded, insured and has a great reputation in the community. After all, you do not want to put your loved one in the hands of an unprofessional company or individual.
San Francisco Home Care Assistance offers custom and flexible hourly and live-in home care plans to families in the Bay Area. We are the live-in specialist. Our Caregivers are professional trained and personally committed. For more information visit our website http://www.homecaresanfrancisco.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Iqbal_Jan
How to Approach a Person With Alzheimer's
A person living with middle-stage Alzheimer's has lost the ability to make sense of the world as easily. Sometimes, the world makes sense during lucid moments. Other times, the dark spots of the light-colored tile are seen as holes that must be filled.
When approaching, make sure you learn what is on the person's mind.
You can't just bound into the room, greet him/her jovially and expect a "Sweetie-am-I-glad-to see-you" gleam in his/her eye!
You're more likely to get the "Who-the-heck-are-you?" glare if s/he looks at you at all.
What can you do to start off on the right foot while marching to same beat?
Approach slowly. Wait for the person to become aware of your presence.
Make sure your eyes meet. You want the person to see you.
Smile. You want the person to feel you are a friend. Barbara Gaughen-Muller, Caregiver of the Month, explains, "Nothing lifts the heart as easily as a smile. And it's free!"
Use the person's name then introduce yourself and state your relationship (wife, husband, son, daughter, sister, brother, friend). Sometimes, the person may act surprised and exclaim, "I know who you are!"
Ask a simple question, initially. WAIT for a response. Be patient. Ask the initial question differently if you don't receive a response or change the subject.
We can never really know the world our loved ones are living in...
One day, about a year after my father had been living in the nursing home, I arrived to see him irritated.
"Hi Mardig!" (We called him by his first name, Martin, in Armenian.) "How are you?" He looked at me strangely, so I introduced myself. "I'm Brenda, your daughter."
He then looked at me sternly. "You're LATE!"
For what? I had NO IDEA!
"Are you with me or not?" he demanded.
Trying to be agreeable, I retorted, "I'm with you!" What could he be talking about?
"Well c'mon then. Let's go!"
"Uh, okay... you lead."
Would you believe - No, you wouldn't; how could you? - he wanted me to join him and his English Countrymen to fight the war?
And here's the kicker: He's Armenian! He's never been to England!
In any case, I accompanied him right through the secure doors to the lobby where we waited for the train to take us to England. We would be waiting a LONG TIME! We were in California!
When visiting a person with Alzheimer's, be careful to first establish eye-contact with a smile then learn what's on the person's mind so you can more easily connect.
Brenda Avadian, MA, of http://www.TheCaregiversVoice.com, is an award-winning speaker who serves as a national spokesperson for family and professional caregivers and is an internationally acclaimed author. Brenda advocates the caregiving continuum, using support groups, geriatric assessment, educational sessions, in-home care, adult day care, elder law services, clinical studies, and residential, assisted living, or nursing care. Having been a caregiver, she now brings hope and strength to caregivers around the world through knowledge, humor, and tears of joy. SIGN-UP for The Caregiver's Voice monthly newsletter at http://thecaregiversvoice.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d98042deca26180a34d771568&id=cbd1e45d58
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brenda_Avadian
When approaching, make sure you learn what is on the person's mind.
You can't just bound into the room, greet him/her jovially and expect a "Sweetie-am-I-glad-to see-you" gleam in his/her eye!
You're more likely to get the "Who-the-heck-are-you?" glare if s/he looks at you at all.
What can you do to start off on the right foot while marching to same beat?
Approach slowly. Wait for the person to become aware of your presence.
Make sure your eyes meet. You want the person to see you.
Smile. You want the person to feel you are a friend. Barbara Gaughen-Muller, Caregiver of the Month, explains, "Nothing lifts the heart as easily as a smile. And it's free!"
Use the person's name then introduce yourself and state your relationship (wife, husband, son, daughter, sister, brother, friend). Sometimes, the person may act surprised and exclaim, "I know who you are!"
Ask a simple question, initially. WAIT for a response. Be patient. Ask the initial question differently if you don't receive a response or change the subject.
We can never really know the world our loved ones are living in...
One day, about a year after my father had been living in the nursing home, I arrived to see him irritated.
"Hi Mardig!" (We called him by his first name, Martin, in Armenian.) "How are you?" He looked at me strangely, so I introduced myself. "I'm Brenda, your daughter."
He then looked at me sternly. "You're LATE!"
For what? I had NO IDEA!
"Are you with me or not?" he demanded.
Trying to be agreeable, I retorted, "I'm with you!" What could he be talking about?
"Well c'mon then. Let's go!"
"Uh, okay... you lead."
Would you believe - No, you wouldn't; how could you? - he wanted me to join him and his English Countrymen to fight the war?
And here's the kicker: He's Armenian! He's never been to England!
In any case, I accompanied him right through the secure doors to the lobby where we waited for the train to take us to England. We would be waiting a LONG TIME! We were in California!
When visiting a person with Alzheimer's, be careful to first establish eye-contact with a smile then learn what's on the person's mind so you can more easily connect.
Brenda Avadian, MA, of http://www.TheCaregiversVoice.com, is an award-winning speaker who serves as a national spokesperson for family and professional caregivers and is an internationally acclaimed author. Brenda advocates the caregiving continuum, using support groups, geriatric assessment, educational sessions, in-home care, adult day care, elder law services, clinical studies, and residential, assisted living, or nursing care. Having been a caregiver, she now brings hope and strength to caregivers around the world through knowledge, humor, and tears of joy. SIGN-UP for The Caregiver's Voice monthly newsletter at http://thecaregiversvoice.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d98042deca26180a34d771568&id=cbd1e45d58
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brenda_Avadian
Nutritional Therapy to Reduce Alzheimer's Risk
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and a huge and growing health problem as we all get older. The number of Alzheimer's victims has doubled in just the last 25 years and is expected to double again in the next 20 years. Because there is currently no cure for this fatal disease, it is critical for anyone over 40 to take steps to lower their risk of developing Alzheimer's.
There is growing scientific evidence that inflammation and oxidative stress can cause beta-amyloid plaque and neurofibrillary tangles, both key abnormalities found in the brains of Alzheimer's victims. Inflammation generates large quantities of free radicals that cause beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles to form.
Medical researchers believe, as a result of hundreds of confirming studies, that Alzheimer's begins as an inflammatory condition which causes damage to normal healthy brain cells. This is one reason why anti-inflammatory drugs, such as NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors are so widely used to treat patients diagnosed with the disease
Rather than wait until being diagnosed with Alzheimer's, you can begin a simple nutritional therapy plan to help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress and their damaging effects on your body and brain. It's easy to do, affordable - especially considering the cost of doing nothing - and may prevent you from becoming another Alzheimer's victim. Here are some of the most promising nutritional supplements you can take to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress:
Acetyl-L-Carnitine, or ALC, helps lower oxidative stress by boosting cellular energy metabolism. This helps protect neurons in the brain from the harmful effects of beta-amyloid. It is most effective when combined with lipoid acid, which is why many supplement suppliers combine the two.
Ashwaganda. This traditional medical plant has been in use for thousands of years, and can help preserve brain health. Medical researchers have found Ashwaganda can halt and repair brain damage caused by beta-amyloid.
Blueberry. This potent antioxidant ranks near the top of the antioxidant scale. Studies have shown blueberries can improve memory and help restore brain cells.
Curcumin. A 2005 study found curcumin was more effective than NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxin in preventing the formation of amyloid plaques. It is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that can reduce oxidative damage and prevent damage to neuronal synapses.
Grape seed. Grape seed extract is a powerful antioxidant - 50 times more effective than fighting free radicals than vitamin C - and blocks the formation of beta-amyloid plaques.
Omega-3. Fish oil contains two potent Omega-3 oils, DHA and EPA. Because DHA is a large part of the total fatty acid content of our brains, a deficiency can lead to cognitive decline. In one study, those with low levels of DHA were 67% more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.
PS. An extract of lecithin, phosphatidylserine (PS) supports production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, helps brain cells produce energy and supports healthy brain cell membranes.
Vitamin C & E. Both are well-known antioxidants. In studies, combining the two was effective in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's, and slowed the mental decline of those who have Alzheimer's.
If you memory isn't as sharp as it used to be, now is the time to give your brain a nutritional tune-up. Don't wait until it's too late.
Craig Wallin is the author of "Keys to Alzheimer's Prevention" and the editor of the Alzheimer's Prevention Digest, a free resource to help you improve your memory and stop brain aging. To learn more, visit: http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Wallin
There is growing scientific evidence that inflammation and oxidative stress can cause beta-amyloid plaque and neurofibrillary tangles, both key abnormalities found in the brains of Alzheimer's victims. Inflammation generates large quantities of free radicals that cause beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles to form.
Medical researchers believe, as a result of hundreds of confirming studies, that Alzheimer's begins as an inflammatory condition which causes damage to normal healthy brain cells. This is one reason why anti-inflammatory drugs, such as NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors are so widely used to treat patients diagnosed with the disease
Rather than wait until being diagnosed with Alzheimer's, you can begin a simple nutritional therapy plan to help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress and their damaging effects on your body and brain. It's easy to do, affordable - especially considering the cost of doing nothing - and may prevent you from becoming another Alzheimer's victim. Here are some of the most promising nutritional supplements you can take to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress:
Acetyl-L-Carnitine, or ALC, helps lower oxidative stress by boosting cellular energy metabolism. This helps protect neurons in the brain from the harmful effects of beta-amyloid. It is most effective when combined with lipoid acid, which is why many supplement suppliers combine the two.
Ashwaganda. This traditional medical plant has been in use for thousands of years, and can help preserve brain health. Medical researchers have found Ashwaganda can halt and repair brain damage caused by beta-amyloid.
Blueberry. This potent antioxidant ranks near the top of the antioxidant scale. Studies have shown blueberries can improve memory and help restore brain cells.
Curcumin. A 2005 study found curcumin was more effective than NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxin in preventing the formation of amyloid plaques. It is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that can reduce oxidative damage and prevent damage to neuronal synapses.
Grape seed. Grape seed extract is a powerful antioxidant - 50 times more effective than fighting free radicals than vitamin C - and blocks the formation of beta-amyloid plaques.
Omega-3. Fish oil contains two potent Omega-3 oils, DHA and EPA. Because DHA is a large part of the total fatty acid content of our brains, a deficiency can lead to cognitive decline. In one study, those with low levels of DHA were 67% more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.
PS. An extract of lecithin, phosphatidylserine (PS) supports production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, helps brain cells produce energy and supports healthy brain cell membranes.
Vitamin C & E. Both are well-known antioxidants. In studies, combining the two was effective in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's, and slowed the mental decline of those who have Alzheimer's.
If you memory isn't as sharp as it used to be, now is the time to give your brain a nutritional tune-up. Don't wait until it's too late.
Craig Wallin is the author of "Keys to Alzheimer's Prevention" and the editor of the Alzheimer's Prevention Digest, a free resource to help you improve your memory and stop brain aging. To learn more, visit: http://alzheimerspreventiondigest.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Wallin
The Early Symptoms and Stages of Alzheimer's Disease Are Described Here
Alzheimer's disease progresses through several stages.
There are four stages of Alzheimer's disease:
1) Pre-dementia
These early Alzheimer's symptoms are most often chalked up to simple aging or stress. These symptoms may show themselves up to eight years prior to actual full-blown Alzheimer's and should only affect complex daily activities. Short term memory loss or an inability to retain new information are the most obvious. NOTE: At the time of diagnosis, an individual has usually progressed beyond the early dementia stage of Alzheimer's disease.
The problems in this stage can be very subtle;
A) Reduction in attentiveness
B) Difficulty planning
C) Less flexibility when things don't go as planned
D) Loss of abstract thinking
E) Loss of the meaning of memories and conceptual relationships
F) Apathy
2) Early dementia
Increased impairment of learning and short-term memory leads to a definitive diagnosis. Loss of semantic memory, or learned facts, occurs first followed by loss of memory of how to do simple tasks, implicit memory.
Simple communication is still possible, but language problems begin to show. Most people can usually still perform simple tasks independently, but need help with more complicated tasks.
3) Moderate dementia
Mental deterioration eventually makes independent living improbable with patients unable to perform most daily living tasks. Problems speaking and inability to recall words worsen. Written communication skills are also lost.
Gross motor skills start to suffer, so the risk of falling increases. The patient may fail to recognize close relatives. Long-term memory now starts to become impaired.
Other common problems at this stage are:
A) Wandering
B) Severe irritability aggression, and bouts of crying
C) Resistance to care giving.
D) Sun downing
E) Delusional symptoms
F) Urinary incontinence
Patients begin to lose awareness of their own disease progression and limitations.
4) Advanced dementia
In the last stages of Alzheimer's, the patient is completely dependent on caregivers as they cannot perform the easiest tasks unaided. Mobility decreases to the point where they are bed ridden and cannot feed themselves.
Speech is reduced to simple words or phrases at the most, but patients can usually relate emotional signals. Aggressiveness may be present, but apathy and exhaustion are more common. Cause of death is typically infection of pressure ulcers, pneumonia, not the disease itself.
So what are NOT considered Alzheimer's symptoms?
1) Occasionally forgetting names or appointments yet realizing later that you forgot
2) Making occasional errors when paying your bills or balancing your checkbook
3) Needing some help to use the microwave or set the video recorder
4) Forgetting what day of the week it is for a moment
5) Sometimes having trouble finding the right words to describe something
6) Misplacing small things once and a while
7) Sometimes tired of work, social, or family obligations
8) Being stubborn and becoming irritated when things aren't done 'your way'
Because Alzheimer's disease places a huge burden on caregivers, usually a spouse or children of the patient what anti aging measure you adopt now to prevent this terrible condition will pay huge dividends years from now for you and your family.
Your life, make it good, make it last! Christopher Gladden
Christopher Gladden first became interested in health, fitness, and anti-aging after vowing to to live a longer and healthier life than his father who's poor lifestyle choices contributed to his demise at the young age of 49.
He hopes to inspire others to embrace good health and Anti-aging as well. You can learn more at his website; http://anti-aging-and-longevity.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Gladden
There are four stages of Alzheimer's disease:
1) Pre-dementia
These early Alzheimer's symptoms are most often chalked up to simple aging or stress. These symptoms may show themselves up to eight years prior to actual full-blown Alzheimer's and should only affect complex daily activities. Short term memory loss or an inability to retain new information are the most obvious. NOTE: At the time of diagnosis, an individual has usually progressed beyond the early dementia stage of Alzheimer's disease.
The problems in this stage can be very subtle;
A) Reduction in attentiveness
B) Difficulty planning
C) Less flexibility when things don't go as planned
D) Loss of abstract thinking
E) Loss of the meaning of memories and conceptual relationships
F) Apathy
2) Early dementia
Increased impairment of learning and short-term memory leads to a definitive diagnosis. Loss of semantic memory, or learned facts, occurs first followed by loss of memory of how to do simple tasks, implicit memory.
Simple communication is still possible, but language problems begin to show. Most people can usually still perform simple tasks independently, but need help with more complicated tasks.
3) Moderate dementia
Mental deterioration eventually makes independent living improbable with patients unable to perform most daily living tasks. Problems speaking and inability to recall words worsen. Written communication skills are also lost.
Gross motor skills start to suffer, so the risk of falling increases. The patient may fail to recognize close relatives. Long-term memory now starts to become impaired.
Other common problems at this stage are:
A) Wandering
B) Severe irritability aggression, and bouts of crying
C) Resistance to care giving.
D) Sun downing
E) Delusional symptoms
F) Urinary incontinence
Patients begin to lose awareness of their own disease progression and limitations.
4) Advanced dementia
In the last stages of Alzheimer's, the patient is completely dependent on caregivers as they cannot perform the easiest tasks unaided. Mobility decreases to the point where they are bed ridden and cannot feed themselves.
Speech is reduced to simple words or phrases at the most, but patients can usually relate emotional signals. Aggressiveness may be present, but apathy and exhaustion are more common. Cause of death is typically infection of pressure ulcers, pneumonia, not the disease itself.
So what are NOT considered Alzheimer's symptoms?
1) Occasionally forgetting names or appointments yet realizing later that you forgot
2) Making occasional errors when paying your bills or balancing your checkbook
3) Needing some help to use the microwave or set the video recorder
4) Forgetting what day of the week it is for a moment
5) Sometimes having trouble finding the right words to describe something
6) Misplacing small things once and a while
7) Sometimes tired of work, social, or family obligations
8) Being stubborn and becoming irritated when things aren't done 'your way'
Because Alzheimer's disease places a huge burden on caregivers, usually a spouse or children of the patient what anti aging measure you adopt now to prevent this terrible condition will pay huge dividends years from now for you and your family.
Your life, make it good, make it last! Christopher Gladden
Christopher Gladden first became interested in health, fitness, and anti-aging after vowing to to live a longer and healthier life than his father who's poor lifestyle choices contributed to his demise at the young age of 49.
He hopes to inspire others to embrace good health and Anti-aging as well. You can learn more at his website; http://anti-aging-and-longevity.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_Gladden
Alzheimer's Disease Signs and Symptoms Help Identify Alzheimer's Disease Early
There are a number Alzheimer's disease signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for which can help diagnose this disease. The most prominent which is memory loss? What seems to be a simple mistake in memory may be the start of Alzheimer's. Anyone can suffer short periods of forgetfulness. Alzheimer's is much more than that; it actually attacks your short-term memory first. Then slowly keeps progressing.
Since 1906 when the German born psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer first discovered Alzheimer's disease in a patient, until this very day. Alzheimer's remains a fatal ailment that has both absolutely no cause as well as no known cure.
There are however medications to help slow this disease from developing into its final stages. In addition there are drugs already available that can assist the sufferer and manage the side effects of depression, hallucinations and delusions.
As Alzheimer's disease signs and symptoms progress the patient will start to forget familiar things and will begin to lose well-known skills. The patient will begin to start forgetting people's names. Then they will actually become unable to identify their friends and family.
It wouldn't be fair to blame all memory loss on Alzheimer's disease. There are two basic reasons for memory loss. Naturally the patient's age is a factor.One of Ten people 65 years of age and older will be experiencing some form of Alzheimer's. And 50% of people 85 years of age and older will also experience some form, Alzheimer's.
Presently here in United States as of 2011 there are over 5 million sufferers. As the baby boomer generation begins to reach their golden years, this monster of a disease will be waiting for them. The first early sign of Alzheimer's is memory loss. Alzheimer's disease will first attack the frontal lobe where the short-term memory is stored, and in many cases not affect the patient's long-term memory. But as the disease progresses the patient will lose more and more of their skills. It will affect the way an individual thinks their ability to speak, and their behavior.
The patient will become indecisive and can start having trouble within decision-making processes. These lapses of memory as well as cognitive functions are based on the frontal as well as temporal lobes of the brain.
The patient may experience mood swings and may become violent or even excessive passivity. The later on stages will be more terrible. Alzheimer's patients will begin to loss control of their body functions and muscle control as well as mobility.
Alzheimer's generally develops and become deadly within approximately 5 to 20 years.
Since Dr. Alzheimer identified the disease in 1903, there have been medical breakthroughs and research studies that have been discovered to be beneficial in preventing or even delaying Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers believe that physical exercise and eating properly can reduce the chance of contracting this disease.people with high blood pressure and high levels of cholesterol, and low levels of vitamin b appeared to be at higher risk of getting Alzheimer's disease.
To learn more about Alzheimer's disease signs and symptoms, and receive a free memory report go to. www.thememorysite.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_T._Morgan
Since 1906 when the German born psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer first discovered Alzheimer's disease in a patient, until this very day. Alzheimer's remains a fatal ailment that has both absolutely no cause as well as no known cure.
There are however medications to help slow this disease from developing into its final stages. In addition there are drugs already available that can assist the sufferer and manage the side effects of depression, hallucinations and delusions.
As Alzheimer's disease signs and symptoms progress the patient will start to forget familiar things and will begin to lose well-known skills. The patient will begin to start forgetting people's names. Then they will actually become unable to identify their friends and family.
It wouldn't be fair to blame all memory loss on Alzheimer's disease. There are two basic reasons for memory loss. Naturally the patient's age is a factor.One of Ten people 65 years of age and older will be experiencing some form of Alzheimer's. And 50% of people 85 years of age and older will also experience some form, Alzheimer's.
Presently here in United States as of 2011 there are over 5 million sufferers. As the baby boomer generation begins to reach their golden years, this monster of a disease will be waiting for them. The first early sign of Alzheimer's is memory loss. Alzheimer's disease will first attack the frontal lobe where the short-term memory is stored, and in many cases not affect the patient's long-term memory. But as the disease progresses the patient will lose more and more of their skills. It will affect the way an individual thinks their ability to speak, and their behavior.
The patient will become indecisive and can start having trouble within decision-making processes. These lapses of memory as well as cognitive functions are based on the frontal as well as temporal lobes of the brain.
The patient may experience mood swings and may become violent or even excessive passivity. The later on stages will be more terrible. Alzheimer's patients will begin to loss control of their body functions and muscle control as well as mobility.
Alzheimer's generally develops and become deadly within approximately 5 to 20 years.
Since Dr. Alzheimer identified the disease in 1903, there have been medical breakthroughs and research studies that have been discovered to be beneficial in preventing or even delaying Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers believe that physical exercise and eating properly can reduce the chance of contracting this disease.people with high blood pressure and high levels of cholesterol, and low levels of vitamin b appeared to be at higher risk of getting Alzheimer's disease.
To learn more about Alzheimer's disease signs and symptoms, and receive a free memory report go to. www.thememorysite.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_T._Morgan
Type 2 Diabetic Alzheimer's, Insulin and Dementia
Type 2 diabetic Alzheimer's caught my attention when I was reading about nasal insulin spray. It was on the market for a short while, but diabetics did not warm up to it, so it was taken off the market again.
But researchers at the National Veteran's Administration Hospital had been looking at Alzheimer's dementia patients and the low levels of insulin found in their brains. The researchers decided to try giving those patients doses of nasal insulin spray, hoping it would reach their brains without causing high insulin levels in the blood.
The results were very encouraging. Memory and thinking skills were improved for a while in many of the Alzheimer's patients, most in those who had mild levels of dementia. Of course, lots more studies will have to be done before nasal insulin spray is prescribed for Alzheimer's dementia.
Looking For the Connection
Statistics show that having type 2 diabetes doubles your risk for Alzheimer's dementia. That is not the same as vascular dementia, which is often the result of hardening and narrowing of arteries, strokes and heart disease.
The steps from diabetes to vascular dementia are easy to follow since diabetes damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, strokes and vascular diseases as we age. But what about Alzheimer's dementia?
When older diabetics with mental ability decline were tested, they had brain changes that look like both Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. The cause seems to be the long-term effects on brain cells of their inability to use sugar and respond to insulin.
Increased mild cognitive impairment (called MCI) seems to be the stage between normal aging and Alzheimer's dementia. There is a lot of interest in the pathways to Alzheimer because of the statistics.
Making a Case
If there is a connection between Alzheimer's and diabetes we need to know it. On Dr. Oz's website there is an article titled "Alzheimers - brain form of diabetes?" The writer explains that in Alzheimer's the brain's ability to use sugar is reduced. It is insulin that helps the brain take up sugar. Since insulin is not as effective with Alzheimer's, brain cells begin to starve.
In type 2 diabetic Alzheimer's the pancreas is pumping out insulin, more than is being used because of insulin resistance. There are high levels of sugar and of insulin in your blood. The damage they cause leads to poor circulation from blood vessel hardening and weakening.
In patients with early Alzheimer's the brain demonstrates resistance to insulin, and it starts with the sections that control memory and personality. Insulin resistance gets serious in the brain because insulin helps make neurotransmitters that are needed for neurons to talk to each other.
And your brain actually makes its own insulin, the same kind that is made in your pancreas. When that insulin isn't being used it causes inflammatory responses in your brain's blood vessels.
Another problem for Alzheimer's patients is the presence of brain plaques. They are formed by a protein called beta amyloid. Type 2 diabetes interferes with the breakdown of this protein, and it builds up, becoming one of the telltale signs of Alzheimer's dementia.
What Is Going On With Mortality Rates?
Heart disease and cancer statistics are down, but Alzheimer's, diabetes and Parkinson's have gone up. Until 1980 diabetes as a cause of death was declining, but since then it has gone up steadily.
That's in spite of improvements in medical treatment and understanding of the disease. That kind of rise in death rates does not seem to point to a genetic cause but to an environmental one.
Right now one in ten people over 20 years old has diabetes. One in four people over 65 know that have it. And the World Health Organization thinks that there is a huge number who have type 2 diabetes and don't know it.
Alzheimer's dementia is ranked the sixth leading cause of death. One in eight people over 65 has it, and half the people over 85 do. And there seem to be strong parallels between the mortality rates of both Alzheimer's and type 2 diabetes, and increased exposure to nitrates, nitrites and nitrosamines. But the connection has not become an accepted fact.
Research shows that large doses of nitrates, nitrites and nitrosamines are harmful to humans and animals, causing DNA damage, oxidative stress and breakdown of cell walls. It is a proinflammatory, causing cytokine activation. And cytokines found in your liver and fat cells may be the inflammatory cause of type 2 diabetes.
Nitrosamines are used to keep foods fresh. We have moved steadily to huge megafarms and away from smaller local farming communities, and the more foods are brought from far away the more nitrosamines are needed.
Nitrites are used in processing cured meats, and sodium nitrate is a common preservative in many processed foods. The question right now is whether long-term chronic low doses of these nitrosamines could cause Alzheimer's dementia, type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease.
While they are debating this, there are things you can do to reduce the levels of nitrosamines in your own diet. The first one is to avoid processed foods, and learn to look for sodium nitrate among the preservatives on labels.
Fertilizers, pesticides and cosmetics rely heavily on nitrosamines, so there may be some in your water and on your skin. Fried bacon, cured meats and cheese as well as beer have nitrates. So avoiding them can be hard.
Type 2 Diabetic Alzheimer's, Fighting Back
What else can you do? You can manage your type 2 diabetes, keeping your blood sugar well controlled. Take the medications you've been given for cholesterol and blood pressure too. Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day and eat healthy foods.
You can add "brain food" to your diet as well. These superfoods are especially good for protecting brain function and slowing the aging process in your brain.
Walnuts slow the aging of the brain with an antioxidant called luteolin. It may reduce memory deficits and inflammation of the brain too. You can also find luteolin in olive oil, peppers and celery.
Berries - blueberry juice has improved memory and depression in trials. It can slow aging and increase signal ability in your brain.
Fish rich in omega-3 such as wild salmon slows cognitive decline. It also has B12 which may actually protect you against Alzheimer's.
Coffee and tea may prevent Alzheimer's and improve your brain's function.
Spinach and other green leafy vegetables have vitamins C and E which have been shown to increase and protect brain function.
If you exercise your mind it keeps those brain cells agile. There is proof that brain games help people stay sharper as they age. And physical exercise is always a great idea.
And if you have begun having problems with cognitive decline, all those things will help you too. It becomes more important to manage your sleep, because it is too easy to get your sleep cycle messed up in early Alzheimer's. And if you have pain, restless leg syndrome, or depression, get some help for those too.
Type 2 diabetic Alzheimer's dementia may have many causes, and nothing explains all the complications of Alzheimer's or of type 2 diabetes for that matter. We may watch with interest and even hope as researchers dig into the mysteries of our body's systems, but we must live today. We can find joy in our creative outlets and our friends and family. It's still the secret of living with type 2 diabetes.
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us." J.R.R. Tolkien, taken from The Lord of the Rings
Martha Zimmer invites you to visit her website and learn more about type 2 diabetes, its complications and how you can deal with them, as well as great tips for eating healthy that will make living with diabetes less painful.
Go to http://www.a-diabetic-life.com and find out what you can do to avoid many of the pitfalls of this life-changing condition, like paying for cures that don't work and spending money for things you could have gotten free. Martha has made the mistakes and done the research so you don't have to.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martha_J_Zimmer
But researchers at the National Veteran's Administration Hospital had been looking at Alzheimer's dementia patients and the low levels of insulin found in their brains. The researchers decided to try giving those patients doses of nasal insulin spray, hoping it would reach their brains without causing high insulin levels in the blood.
The results were very encouraging. Memory and thinking skills were improved for a while in many of the Alzheimer's patients, most in those who had mild levels of dementia. Of course, lots more studies will have to be done before nasal insulin spray is prescribed for Alzheimer's dementia.
Looking For the Connection
Statistics show that having type 2 diabetes doubles your risk for Alzheimer's dementia. That is not the same as vascular dementia, which is often the result of hardening and narrowing of arteries, strokes and heart disease.
The steps from diabetes to vascular dementia are easy to follow since diabetes damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, strokes and vascular diseases as we age. But what about Alzheimer's dementia?
When older diabetics with mental ability decline were tested, they had brain changes that look like both Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. The cause seems to be the long-term effects on brain cells of their inability to use sugar and respond to insulin.
Increased mild cognitive impairment (called MCI) seems to be the stage between normal aging and Alzheimer's dementia. There is a lot of interest in the pathways to Alzheimer because of the statistics.
Making a Case
If there is a connection between Alzheimer's and diabetes we need to know it. On Dr. Oz's website there is an article titled "Alzheimers - brain form of diabetes?" The writer explains that in Alzheimer's the brain's ability to use sugar is reduced. It is insulin that helps the brain take up sugar. Since insulin is not as effective with Alzheimer's, brain cells begin to starve.
In type 2 diabetic Alzheimer's the pancreas is pumping out insulin, more than is being used because of insulin resistance. There are high levels of sugar and of insulin in your blood. The damage they cause leads to poor circulation from blood vessel hardening and weakening.
In patients with early Alzheimer's the brain demonstrates resistance to insulin, and it starts with the sections that control memory and personality. Insulin resistance gets serious in the brain because insulin helps make neurotransmitters that are needed for neurons to talk to each other.
And your brain actually makes its own insulin, the same kind that is made in your pancreas. When that insulin isn't being used it causes inflammatory responses in your brain's blood vessels.
Another problem for Alzheimer's patients is the presence of brain plaques. They are formed by a protein called beta amyloid. Type 2 diabetes interferes with the breakdown of this protein, and it builds up, becoming one of the telltale signs of Alzheimer's dementia.
What Is Going On With Mortality Rates?
Heart disease and cancer statistics are down, but Alzheimer's, diabetes and Parkinson's have gone up. Until 1980 diabetes as a cause of death was declining, but since then it has gone up steadily.
That's in spite of improvements in medical treatment and understanding of the disease. That kind of rise in death rates does not seem to point to a genetic cause but to an environmental one.
Right now one in ten people over 20 years old has diabetes. One in four people over 65 know that have it. And the World Health Organization thinks that there is a huge number who have type 2 diabetes and don't know it.
Alzheimer's dementia is ranked the sixth leading cause of death. One in eight people over 65 has it, and half the people over 85 do. And there seem to be strong parallels between the mortality rates of both Alzheimer's and type 2 diabetes, and increased exposure to nitrates, nitrites and nitrosamines. But the connection has not become an accepted fact.
Research shows that large doses of nitrates, nitrites and nitrosamines are harmful to humans and animals, causing DNA damage, oxidative stress and breakdown of cell walls. It is a proinflammatory, causing cytokine activation. And cytokines found in your liver and fat cells may be the inflammatory cause of type 2 diabetes.
Nitrosamines are used to keep foods fresh. We have moved steadily to huge megafarms and away from smaller local farming communities, and the more foods are brought from far away the more nitrosamines are needed.
Nitrites are used in processing cured meats, and sodium nitrate is a common preservative in many processed foods. The question right now is whether long-term chronic low doses of these nitrosamines could cause Alzheimer's dementia, type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease.
While they are debating this, there are things you can do to reduce the levels of nitrosamines in your own diet. The first one is to avoid processed foods, and learn to look for sodium nitrate among the preservatives on labels.
Fertilizers, pesticides and cosmetics rely heavily on nitrosamines, so there may be some in your water and on your skin. Fried bacon, cured meats and cheese as well as beer have nitrates. So avoiding them can be hard.
Type 2 Diabetic Alzheimer's, Fighting Back
What else can you do? You can manage your type 2 diabetes, keeping your blood sugar well controlled. Take the medications you've been given for cholesterol and blood pressure too. Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day and eat healthy foods.
You can add "brain food" to your diet as well. These superfoods are especially good for protecting brain function and slowing the aging process in your brain.
Walnuts slow the aging of the brain with an antioxidant called luteolin. It may reduce memory deficits and inflammation of the brain too. You can also find luteolin in olive oil, peppers and celery.
Berries - blueberry juice has improved memory and depression in trials. It can slow aging and increase signal ability in your brain.
Fish rich in omega-3 such as wild salmon slows cognitive decline. It also has B12 which may actually protect you against Alzheimer's.
Coffee and tea may prevent Alzheimer's and improve your brain's function.
Spinach and other green leafy vegetables have vitamins C and E which have been shown to increase and protect brain function.
If you exercise your mind it keeps those brain cells agile. There is proof that brain games help people stay sharper as they age. And physical exercise is always a great idea.
And if you have begun having problems with cognitive decline, all those things will help you too. It becomes more important to manage your sleep, because it is too easy to get your sleep cycle messed up in early Alzheimer's. And if you have pain, restless leg syndrome, or depression, get some help for those too.
Type 2 diabetic Alzheimer's dementia may have many causes, and nothing explains all the complications of Alzheimer's or of type 2 diabetes for that matter. We may watch with interest and even hope as researchers dig into the mysteries of our body's systems, but we must live today. We can find joy in our creative outlets and our friends and family. It's still the secret of living with type 2 diabetes.
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us." J.R.R. Tolkien, taken from The Lord of the Rings
Martha Zimmer invites you to visit her website and learn more about type 2 diabetes, its complications and how you can deal with them, as well as great tips for eating healthy that will make living with diabetes less painful.
Go to http://www.a-diabetic-life.com and find out what you can do to avoid many of the pitfalls of this life-changing condition, like paying for cures that don't work and spending money for things you could have gotten free. Martha has made the mistakes and done the research so you don't have to.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martha_J_Zimmer
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