Alzheimer's Disease Research Paper

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Having become an unsurprising part of growing old in the United States, Alzheimer's disease is an often misunderstood affliction that still leaves much unexplained. Though medical science has conceived the ideal ways to treat and care for a patient suffering from the disease, the essential information regarding its causes and method of eradication are unfortunately not yet within grasp. Affecting several million Americans a year, with some as young as 50, Alzheimer's is a serious problem that seniors face, often rendering them unable to enjoy their lives. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, typically affecting those 60 years and older. Over 3 million new cases are reported each year in the United States alone. Often mistaken

to be a general part of growing old, early onset of the disease can happen in people as young at 40 years old. It is the moat common form of dementia, which results in a collective loss of memory, intellectual ability and a regression in behavior. Alzheimer's worsens over time and cannot be cured, through there are treatments available that allow patients and their families to cope with the symptoms. Like other disorders that afflict the elderly and get progressively, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease has no known cause. The issue is still hotly debated by professionals within the medical community, with several hypotheses presented as to why the disease affects so many at such high rates of infection. Up to 5% of cases have been confirmed to be the result of genetic differences, based on studies using twins and family units, revealing the genetic heritability of the disease to be between 49% and 79%. The disease is generally treatable with care-giving, psycho-social intervention and certain medications. Alzheimer's has also been commonly seen as an external affliction, as the symptoms one experiences can place burdens on those around them. While a significant amount of physical care must be administers to patients who are in the advanced stages of the disease, this poses a problem for patients and their families who are not prepared to offer the amount of care that is needed, either physically or economically. This rings true for those who have been separated from their families, or do not have children. This disadvantage can prove dangerous for someone even in small cases.

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Alzheimer's Disease Research Paper

Still Alice by Lisa Genova

Pathophysiology, Progression, and Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease

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