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Former insurance exec Gazenski named WB city administrator

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Struggling Flyers fire general manager Ron Hextall

<p>Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, first discovered by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1906, is a progressive brain disorder that gradually reduces memory and cognition. It is the most common form of dementia, a general term for abnormal memory, cognitive and behavioral problems. Over time, tissue damage from the disorder makes it difficult to perform everyday tasks.</p><p>Alzheimer&#8217;s affects an estimated 5.7 million Americans, most of whom are over the age of 65.</p><p>The average age at onset is in the mid-60&#8217;s. However, in extremely rare cases, the disease can also present itself between the ages of 30 and 60.</p><p>As the disease progresses, Alzheimer&#8217;s patients may have trouble speaking, behave erratically and become irritable.</p><p>We aren&#8217;t sure what triggers the disease, but we do know some of the genes associated with it and how the disease affects the brain. The brains of people with Alzheimer&#8217;s are affected by &#8220;plaques,&#8221; masses of a protein called beta-amyloid and &#8220;tangles&#8221; of intertwined fibers of another protein, tau. These tissues and fibers clump together, interfere with brain cells communicating through neurotransmitters and injure and kill brain cells</p><p>Depending on the age of onset and other factors like exercise habits and heart health, progression of the disease can take years or even decades. During this time, loved ones may seek the best available care to extend the life and independence of the patient.</p><p><strong>The many facets of care </strong></p><p>Because there is no cure for the disease, Alzheimer&#8217;s care can be long-term and should focus on more than just the medical aspect of the disease.</p><p>When seeking out a doctor or treatment program, it&#8217;s important to consider many different types of care.</p><p>Alzheimer&#8217;s is a terminal disease, so emotional support services are just as important as medical and physical therapies. It&#8217;s important to keep our loved ones &#8212; and ourselves &#8212; in mind while navigating its frustrations.</p><p>Medications are commonly prescribed to treat individual Alzheimer&#8217;s symptoms like memory loss, behavior changes and sleep problems, though they cannot reverse damage.</p><p>Options include cholinesterase inhibitors like galantamine, rivastigmine and donepezil which helps preserve brain chemicals important to memory and thinking in mild Alzheimer&#8217;s, and memantine to maintain daily function in moderate to severe cases. Some doctors may also recommend medications for sleeplessness and anxiety, though these aren&#8217;t right for everyone.</p><p>Safety assistance is important as dementia worsens and mobility becomes more difficult. You may want to consider a home-help aide or nurse to provide part- or full-time assistance in creating a safe and supportive atmosphere. For example, teaching organizational habits may help as your loved one begins to lose their memory.</p><p>Nutritional oversight is also important, as people with Alzheimer&#8217;s occasionally forget to eat or settle for easier, less nutritious options. A nutritionist can ensure your loved one is getting the vitamins and nutrients they need, as well as a healthy caloric intake to maintain energy.</p><p>Emotional support in the form of assistance dogs, support groups or therapy can be soothing as dementia makes normal activities seem increasingly frightening or overwhelming.</p><p><strong>Considering residential care </strong></p><p>As Alzheimer&#8217;s reaches its later stages, your loved one will require around-the-clock medical care either at home, or in a residential care facility. Unfortunately, at-home care is often complicated or costly, as special equipment may be necessary.</p><p>When it&#8217;s time to consider residential care for health or personal reasons, be sure to find a program that has a robust on-call medical staff and regular family participation in decision-making. Many facilities incorporate wings or buildings specially designed for memory impairments, easing the transition and helping with the anxiety they may face.</p><p>Research is ongoing, and we&#8217;re aggressively searching for ways to prevent, treat, modify and perhaps someday cure this heartbreaking disease. If you or someone you care about is affected, early diagnosis and support can assist with some of the challenges ahead. Get some help.</p><style>
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<div class="metaInfo"><bylineMeta><p>By Alfred Casale</p><p>To Your Health</p></bylineMeta></div><div class="metaInfo"><shirttailMeta><p>Dr. Alfred Casale, a cardiothoracic surgeon, is Associate Chief Medical Officer for Geisinger Health and Chair of the Geisinger Cardiac Institute. Readers may write to him via ae@www.timesleader.com.</p></shirttailMeta></div>

Finding the best Alzheimer’s care