Alzheimer’s Prevention
The Prevention Of Alzheimers Disease
Because the cause of the disease is unknown, there are no prevention protocols to follow at this time. And, because the controllable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease are unknown, it is not yet possible to reduce the chances of developing the disease.
A new study suggests that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The finding appears to confirm that inflammation plays a role in Alzheimer’s. Further study is needed to identify which medications safely prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s Treatment
Specific treatment for Alzheimer’s disease will be determined by your physician based on:
- Your age, overall health, and medical history
- Extent of the disease
- Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the disease
- Your opinion or preference
At this time, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, no way of slowing down the progression of this disease, and no treatment available to reverse the deterioration of Alzheimer’s disease. New research findings give reason for hope, and several drugs are being studied in clinical trials to determine if they can slow the progress of the disease or improve memory for a period of time.
There are some medications available to assist in managing some of the most troubling symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, including the following:
- depression
- behavioral disturbance
- sleeplessness
In managing the disease, physical exercise and social activity are important, as are proper nutrition, health maintenance, and a calm and well-structured environment.
Alzheimer’s rehabilitation
The rehabilitation program for persons with Alzheimer’s differs depending upon the symptoms, expression, and progression of the disease, and the fact that making a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is so difficult. These variables determine the amount and type of assistance needed for the Alzheimer’s individual and family.
With Alzheimer’s rehabilitation, it is important to remember that, although any skills lost will not be regained, the caregiving team must keep in mind the following considerations:
- In managing the disease, physical exercise and social activity are important, as are proper nutrition and health maintenance.
- Plan daily activities that help to provide structure, meaning, and accomplishment for the individual.
- As functions are lost, adapt activities and routines to allow the individual to participate as much as possible.
- Keep activities familiar and satisfying.
- Allow the individual to complete as many things by himself/herself as possible. The caregiver may need to initiate an activity, but allow the individual to complete it as much as he/she can.
- Provide “cues” for desired behavior (i.e., label drawers/cabinets/closets according to their contents).
- Keep the individual out of harm’s way by removing all safety risks (i.e., car keys, matches). As a caregiver (full-time or part-time), it is important to understand and act accordingly to your own physical and emotional limitations.