Page 19 - Leisure Living Magazine August 2016

The Progression
Of Alzheimer’s Disease
By Theresa Bowen, Ph.D., Email: theesajb@gmail.com
Everyone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dis- ease progresses differently. Their experiences can be categorized into three stages: early, mid- dle and late. Being aware of the stages can be a useful way of understanding the changes that may occur and help family and caregivers ad- dress the symptoms in the best possible way. It is important to note that stages may overlap, some symptoms can appear earlier or later, and some symptoms may appear and then disappear. The three stages are considered a guide and show how the advancement of Alzheimer’s can develop. Because Alzheimer’s disease is a pro- gressive condition, it means that the chemistry of the brain becomes increasingly damaged over time. On the positive side there is evidence that keeping active, being social, and developing or continuing hobbies with the use of your hands can sometimes slow the advancement and help retain a person’s abilities.
The early stage begins with minor changes in a person’s abilities and may span 2-4 years. Loss of memory of a recent event or conversation, loss of interest in other people or activities, and becoming confused or losing track of the day or date are all common symptoms of the early stage. Most often these events are not recognized until caregivers look back and realize how the disease progressed in their loved ones. If you are a care- giver of a loved one or a friend of a person with Alzheimer’s disease you may be tempted to do things for them. As much as possible let them do things on their own. According to the Alz- heimer’s Society it is best to help them maintain their independence so they can retain their feel- ings of self-esteem. It is normal when a person briefly forgets conversation details but in the ear- ly stages of Alzheimer’s disease they will forget entire conversations.
In the middle stage which can last 2-10 years changes become more obvious. In this stage damage occurs in areas of the brain that control speech, reasoning, and sensory processing. You may need to remind your loved one to eat, wash,
dress, and even go to the bathroom. Some symp- toms include confusion, aggressive behavior, and delusions. For example, a loved one may mix up their days and nights, believe things that are not true, and walk off becoming lost. In this stage your loved one needs structure, reminders, and assistance with daily living.
In the severe or late stage of Alzheimer’s dis- ease the brain tissue shrinks significantly. A loved one loses ability to remember, converse with oth- ers or process information. This stage can last an average of 1-3 years depending on the quality of their care. The loved one will need around the clock attention and intensive support. In this fi- nal stage speech is limited as well as the ability to walk or sit. Near the end a person may be bed ridden all or most of the time as their body shuts down.
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Memory Screening Updates: The Sandusky County YMCA does not offer memory screening but they wish they could. The Swanton Health Care & Retirement Center at 214 S. Munson Rd. in Swanton, Ohio conducts memory screening the third Tuesday of every month. There is no need to make an appointment but you can give them a call at 419.825.1145 for more details.
Theresa Bowen, Ph.D. is an Educational Consultant and Distance Education professor. She conducts technical training for community colleges, universities, and small businesses. With over thirty-nine years’ experience in education and training she recently completed training for faculty members in Tennessee, Kansas and Arizona. Dr. Bowen has a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Toledo, OH with a minor in research methods, media, and business management. Her Bachelor of Science and Masters of Arts degrees are in education from The Defiance College, Defiance OH. When she isn’t glued to a computer she enjoys playing piano, making videos, and painting.
As an avid reader of Leisure Living Magazine she will keep readers up-to-date on the recent developments and research for Alzheimer’s disease.
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