NHM Health Focus:
Alzheimers Disease
November 2009
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November is Alzheimer's Awareness Month, a time to remember those who
are living with the disease, thank those who care for them, and recognize
those who are seeking solutions to its cure and prevention.
Alzheimer’s (AHLZ-high-merz) disease is a progressive
brain disorder that gradually destroys a person’s memory and ability
to learn, reason, make judgments, communicate and carry out daily activities.
As Alzheimer’s progresses, individuals may also experience changes
in personality and behavior, such as anxiety, suspiciousness or agitation,
as well as delusions or hallucinations. Alzheimer's
Association
Scientific research,
including clinical trials
and genetics
studies, has revealed a great deal of useful information that can
be applied to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Alzheimer’s,
but there is much still to be learned about the disease.
Alzheimer's research can also work to improve the quality of life
for those with Alzheimer's, their families, friends and caretakers by identifying ways to help patients learn new skills, caretakers cope with continuing challenges, and friends and family understand the changes in their loved one.
The onset of Alzheimer's disease in a friend or family member can be
disturbing to people of any age. It is particularly
difficult for children who may be living in the same household as
someone with Alzheimer's. Articles such as Your
Brain: More Powerful than a Wizard, More Complex than a Computer
can help children and teens understand the disease, and help them develop
healthy relationships with a loved one with Alzheimer's disease.
Access Excellence @ the National Health Museum has
these resources related to the brain and brain health:
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